It took more than two seasons but Gareth Bale finally feels settled at Real Madrid and is dreaming of big things to come.
The Wales international will play his second Uefa Champions League final with Real in three seasons in Milan on Saturday.
Bale, who moved to Real from Tottenham Hotspur in September 2013, lifted the European Cup in his first year with the Spanish giants in May 2014.
“I feel much more comfortable this year, it’s true,” Bale said to Marca newspaper.
“You can notice that on the pitch.
“I feel more integrated, I have more personal relationships with my teammates and that always gives you more happiness and that reflects on my game.
“I’m enjoying myself a lot in Madrid and I hope this continues for many years.”
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After scoring an equaliser in the Champions League final in 2014 in Lisbon, which saw Real beat Atletico Madrid 4-1 in extra-time, Bale found his second season abroad more challenging.
Injuries and a drop in form saw the winger end the 2014/15 campaign with 17 goals in 48 games for Real.
Some critics believed the club had paid too much money in his €91 million (Dh373.4m) transfer.
“It’s true that I went through a difficult spell here but everything has changed,” Bale, 26, said. “Now I feel that the fans are with me and that they know that I’m giving my all.
“I think I’ve proved this season what I’m capable of and the fans are happy with me.”
Bale has struggled with injuries again but his numbers have improved. Despite being limited to 30 appearances in all competitions for Real, he has scored 19 goals and provided 10 assists.
“I think my performances have been very good this season but I can still improve a lot,” he said.
“My plan is clear: improve each season and raise the level of my performances.
“I want to be better each season and win many titles along the way.
“I hope on Saturday I can wrap up a great season in the best possible way but knowing that I can still improve.”
As for his long-term future, Bale said, “I’m very happy in Madrid and I have three years left on my contract. We will see what happens in the future but my idea is to continue here because I’m very happy.”
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