Bale isn't a starter nor an impact substitute Real Madrid Did very little against Athletic

After starting against Barcelona at the Camp Nou, it was back to the bench for Gareth Bale against Athletic Club on Sunday night.

With Real Madrid struggling for inspiration in attack, Zinedine Zidane called on the Welshman and he replaced Rodrygo Goes in the second half.

However, apart from hovering in between the lines and attempted a shot from distance, Bale really didn't do very much.

Despite coming on with fresh legs, Bale hardly tried to find space to take advantage of his acceleration and pace.

Maybe it was because Athletic were so solid defensively, or maybe because Real Madrid weren't much of a threat, or maybe because he wasn't very motivated, but Bale wasn't very dangerous at all.

The statistics say it all for Bale. He's scored just two goals this season - both in LaLiga Santander against Villarreal on September 1.

Like in previous seasons, he's not been a regular in the team, playing just 12 of Real Madrid's 24 matches in all competitions.

Real Madrid are struggling for goals. Bale can score them, but he's not showing that this season.