Arteta slams penalty calls in loss to Inter Milan, says “I don’t understand the decision”
Hakan Calhanoglu’s penalty and an organised defensive display gave Inter a hard-fought victory over Arsenal, their first Champions League defeat of the season.
Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane praised Gareth Bale’s performance against Arsenal in their recent encounter but suggested that “nothing has changed” as far as Bale’s plans to part ways with Zidane is concerned.
Bale, who was sitting on the bench in the first half, was called to rescue his side who were trailing 2-0. The Wales international then scored to help Real Madrid level the score 2-2 in the International Champions Cup. Real Madrid eventually won the match 3-2 on penalties.
After being prompted to leave Madrid, Bale did not feature in the match against Bayern Munich. However, he featured in the next match after Zidane had made a public announcement regarding his departure from the club.
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When Zidane was asked about Bale’s performance, he told reporters “He has played a good game and I am happy for him. As for everyone.”
“He is with us and we will continue working. We play well 10 against 11 and better 10 against 10. I don’t know what will happen. He wanted to play and the other day no.”
“I haven’t talked to him. He has trained normally and that’s why he played. Nothing has changed, you know what the situation is like,” he added.
The second half completely belonged to Bale’s brilliance on the field. Marco Asensio was also impressive but had to leave the field on a stretcher after sustaining an injury.
Bale reduced the deficit after scoring a goal in the second half. Substitute Asensio then equalised a few minutes later.
However, Asensio was forced to leave the ground because of a knee injury and Zidane confessed that he is very concerned.
“It’s worrisome,” Zidane said. “Hopefully not, but he’s gone directly to the hospital to test. It looks bad,” he said.
Real Madrid meet Atletico Madrid next on 27 July, Saturday (IST).
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