Football fans will witness the return of Gareth Bale this Saturday when the Welsh legend takes the pitch for a charitable exhibition in Seoul.
The 36-year-old, who ended his professional career in January 2023, will feature for FC Spear in their clash with Shield United at Seoul World Cup Stadium.
The unique contest features attacking players facing defensive specialists in an intriguing tactical battle.
Brazilian icon Ronaldinho, AC Milan legend Kaka, and Manchester United's record scorer Wayne Rooney will partner the former Tottenham and Real Madrid winger in FC Spear's star-studded forward line.
Gareth Bale is set to make a footballing return for a charity match
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Eden Hazard, Didier Drogba, Steven Gerrard and Franck Ribery complete FC Spear's offensive arsenal, with Gianluigi Buffon providing goalkeeping expertise under Arsene Wenger's management.
Shield United boasts an impenetrable defensive core including Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic, Ashley Cole, Carles Puyol and Alessandro Nesta, with Rafa Benitez orchestrating their tactical approach. The defensive side dominated last year's encounter, securing a convincing 4-1 triumph over the attackers.
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This innovative format challenges conventional football dynamics, testing whether creative flair can overcome organised defensive discipline in a spectacle designed for charitable purposes.
Bale's participation marks a rare appearance since concluding an exceptional career that saw him claim five Champions League titles and three LaLiga crowns during his time at Real Madrid.
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Gareth Bale won the Champions League five times before retiring
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The Welshman earned PFA Player of the Year honours twice whilst representing Tottenham and added an MLS Cup plus Supporters Shield to his collection during a brief stint with Los Angeles FC.
His international legacy remains unmatched as Wales' most capped player and leading scorer, netting 41 times across 111 appearances. Bale captained his nation at their first World Cup since 1958 during the Qatar tournament, choosing to retire immediately after that historic campaign concluded in late 2022.
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The Welsh icon has maintained connections to football since hanging up his boots, recently securing a broadcasting position with TNT Sports. He replaces Rio Ferdinand in their punditry team following Ferdinand's departure at the season's conclusion.
During the summer transfer window, reports linked Bale with a potential acquisition of Cardiff City, though no deal materialised.
Steven Gerrard is set to team up with some legendary players
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Saturday's charity appearance represents another step in Bale's post-retirement football activities, offering supporters a chance to see the five-time Champions League winner in action once more.