Gareth Bale makes a surprise announcement on future plans

The Wales captain spoke to reporters in his first press conference since joining LAFC earlier in the summer.

Contrary to the widespread speculation over his future, Gareth Bale has no plans to hang up his boots just yet.

The 32-year-old forward hopes to take part in Euro 2024 with the Welsh national team, and perhaps even the 2026 World Cup, during his stay in the United States at Los Angeles FC.

He has dismissed claims of only joining the MLS outfit to be fit for this year’s World Cup and insisted he is in it for the long haul.

#GB11 🔥🤝 @LAFC @LAFC3252 pic.twitter.com/nih9vZp9IG

— Gareth Bale (@GarethBale11) July 12, 2022

‘I still have many years to come’

In a press conference at LAFC’s Banc of California Stadium on Monday, Bale said: “Being here gives me the best possible chance to make it to the Euros and, you never know, maybe one more.

“I still have many years to come. I haven’t come here just to be here for six or 12 months. I’ve come here to try and be here as long as possible.

“I want to do as well as I can, make my mark on this league and this team, and I’m looking forward to the future. It’s not just a short thing.

“It gives me the best opportunity to keep going to the next Euros, maybe further.”

Bale, who arrived in the U.S. last Friday, has joined LAFC on a free transfer from Real Madrid. He has signed a one-year contract with the MLS side, with an option to stay for the 2024 season included.

The five-time Champions League winner has taken the No.11 jersey from Jose Cifuentes, who volunteered it to his new teammate.