Gareth Bale was also named in the starting line-up at the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday as Madrid launched their new era under Zidane at home to Celta Vigo in La Liga. Courtois was the biggest surprise, given he was bought by Madrid for around 40 million euros ($45 million) last summer and had established himself ahead of Navas under Santiago Solari. Bale’s selection suggests Zidane is at least prepared to offer the Welshman a chance to stake his claim. Zidane lost faith in Bale last season, with the pair’s relationship growing increasingly strained before Zidane announced his departure. Madrid lie 12 points adrift of leaders Barcelona, who play away at Real Betis on Sunday.

Source: The Guardian March 16, 2019 15:11 UTC