Whilst the relationship between the two parties has become somewhat strained in recent years,
Bale lifted five Champions League trophies during his time in the Spanish capital, after joining in 2013.
“I write this message to say thank you to all my teammates, past and present, my managers,
the backroom staff and to the fans that supported me.”
“I arrived here nine years ago as a young man who wanted to realise my dream of playing for Real Madrid.
To wear the pristine white kit, to wear the crest on my chest, to play at the Santiago Bernabeu,
to win titles and to be part of what it’s so famous for, to win the Champions League.
“I can now look back, reflect and say with honesty that this dream became a reality and much, much more.
“To be part of this club’s history and to achieve what we achieved whilst I was a Real Madrid player has been an incredible experience and one I will never forget.
“I also want to thank president Florentino Perez, Jose Angel Sanchez, and the board for giving me the opportunity to play for this club.
“Together we were able to create some moments that will live forever in the history of this club and football.
It has been an honour, thank you, HALA MADRID!”
