When will Gareth Bale make his MLS debut?

The Wales captain has signed a one-year contract with MLS club Los Angeles FC.

After nine trophy-laden years at Real Madrid, Gareth Bale has joined Los Angeles FC in the Major Soccer League on an initial one-year deal.

In doing so, Bale becomes the latest big name to head to the United States after the likes of David Beckham, Thierry Henry, David Villa, Andrea Pirlo, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Didier Drogba, Wayne Rooney, and Kaka.

The 32-year-old winger will form part of a new star-studded trio in California alongside Mexican striker Carlos Vela and Italian defender Giorgio Chiellini.

When will Bale make his MLS debut?

Bale and Chiellini, who has joined LAFC from Juventus for free, are eligible to make their maiden appearances for the club when the MLS transfer window reopens on Thursday, July 7.

This will allow both players to complete their respective free transfers to Steve Cherundolo’s squad.

Bale, therefore, could make his MLS debut against LA Galaxy in the ‘El Trafico’ derby on Friday, July 8. If the Welshman plays, he may face his former Real Madrid teammate Javier Hernandez. The pair shared the dressing room in Spain for one season in 2013/14. Together, they won the 2014 FIFA Club World Cup in Morocco.

Due to a nine-hour time difference, the LAFC and LA Galaxy will take place at 04:00 am on Saturday at Central European Time.

How are Los Angeles FC doing?

After failing to make the playoffs last season, LAFC have bounced back in style under new manager Steve Cherundolo.

From a ninth-place finish in 2021, the Black and Gold currently lead the Western Conference. They sit two points above Austin FC and boast the joint-best attacking and defensive records.

Cristian Arango and Carlos Vela are the club’s top scorers with six goals each from 18 games.