Real Madrid News: Dimitar Berbatov believes Bale has been receiving unfair criticism at Real Madrid

What's the story?

Dimitar Berbatov, the former Manchester United star, suggested that Gareth Bale should leave Real Madrid if he doesn't feel appreciated at the Santiago Bernabeu.

In case you didn't know..

Gareth Bale signed for Tottenham Hotspur in 2007 after an impressive season at Southampton. The Welsh superstar scored 56 goals in 203 games in his six-year stint at White Hart Lane.

Bale was one for the hottest prospects in world football when he starred for Tottenham in the Premier League. Real Madrid brought Bale for a then world record fee of €100 million in 2014. Bale in his debut season, helped Real Madrid to win the Copa del Rey title.

He also played important role in Real Madrid's Champions League title wins. Former Tottenham star has scored 100 goals in 219 appearances for Los Blancos so far.

The heart of the matter

Berbatov in his interview with a betting firm Betfair gave his opinion on Gareth Bale's situation at Real Madrid and said, "Bale seems to get the blame for everything that goes wrong at Real Madrid, which is unfair. If you look at his stats - 12 goals in 30 appearances this season - he is still performing, but he is the whipping boy for some reason. And, as a player, if you don't feel appreciated, then you have to move on."

Manchester United legend thinks that Bale can play for anyone and added, "Where would he go? It's a question of money first of course - I'm not sure Spurs can afford over £100m on a player - but Bale is a world-class talent who could play for anyone and it would be great to see him back."

What's next?

Real Madrid will face Levante in LaLiga on Monday, followed by two El Clasicos - the second leg of Copa del Rey semi-final and LaLiga.