Former Real Madrid defender Roberto Carlos has supported his former suitors’ decision to sign Gareth Bale for a world record fee.
Carlos, who played at Madrid during the ‘Galactico’ era, does not believe that morality comes into it, after Barcelona coach Gerardo Martino argued that the money involved showed “a lack of respect for the world we live”, claiming that the game’s top players have always commanded extravagant fees, reports Goal.com.
“They have paid that because he deserves it,” the former Brazil international told AS.
“They also paid a lot for (Zinedine) Zidane, (Luis) Figo, Ronaldo, Cristiano (Ronaldo). Barcelona also paid much for Neymar. They are worth it.
“That is why I don’t understand Tata Martino’s critique of the signing of Bale alluding to the economic situation. You have to pay for this type of player.”
Bale’s arrival at the Santiago Bernabeu has prompted comparisons with the Madrid squad that lifted the Champions League in 2002. However, Carlos feels that the current team is nowhere near as strong.
“Do not compare,” the full-back declared.
“This Madrid is great, but to be equal or better they have to achieve what we did.”
Still, Carlos does believe that Carlo Ancelotti’s men are capable of claiming a 10th European Cup this season, despite their underwhelming domestic form.
“In the league are not going well,” the 40-year-old conceded. “But many times we had that and we won the Champions League.”
Carlos spent 11 seasons at the Santiago Bernabeu, joining from Inter in 1996 before leaving for Fenerbahce in 2007.
