The Welshman indicated after his match-winning display in the Champions League final in May that he would leave the club this summer after growing frustrated with a lack of playing time in what should be the prime of his career.
However, circumstances have changed with Zinedine Zidane and Ronaldo both leaving the club, creating an opening for Bale to step out of the Portuguese’s shadow.
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Manchester United chief Ed Woodward has wanted to sign Bale ever since taking the job at United as he continues his never-ending quest of signing high-profile players.
Real Madrid face Manchester United in their next preseason game in Miami but Lopetegui was adamant Bale will not be lining up for the opposition come the first game of next season.
“He's very, very happy,” said the former Spain manager. “He's very happy to play at Real Madrid. He's happy to be here, this is a fantastic opportunity for him to show his talent.
“I've talked to him like I've talked to everyone. He's with the team, he's happy, he's in line with our goals and it's a start of a new exciting path for us that I'm looking forward to.
“We first recognise Cristiano as one of the most important players in the recent history of Real Madrid, he vocalised his desire to leave and the club gave him all the facilities to do so. We wish him all the luck in the world.
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