Real Madrid star a doubt for Super Cup against Manchester United

Gareth Bale has emerged as an early doubt for Real Madrid’s clash against Manchester United in the UEFA Super Cup next week after limping out of training with an ankle injury, reports The Daily Mirror.

The Wales international became a forgotten man at Madrid last season after a number of reoccurring injuries restricted his involvement during their league and European double salvo.

Madrid are currently training in the United States ahead of their pre-season match against the MLS All Stars but Bale is now a serious doubt for Thursday’s game after picking up a knock in the build up.

Zinedine Zidane’s side are due to face Europa League winners United next Tuesday and the Madrid manager will want to have Bale available for selection given Cristiano Ronaldo is still away from the team on an extended break.

Bale was limited to just 17 league starts last season and the 28-year-old has actually been linked with a summer move to United as Madrid continue to pursue Monaco striker Kylian Mbappe.

In Europe’s top five leagues over the last two campaigns, only Olivier Giroud (13) has scored more headed goals than Bale (12).