Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Gareth Bale was almost unrecognisable when Real Madrid held a training session on Thursday.
The Spanish club's Champions League and Copa del Rey hero was not only sporting a (slightly dodgy) new haircut and Alice band, but he looks to have been hard at work in the gym, adding muscle.
Bale will return to Wales next week as Real play the European Super Cup against Seville at the Cardiff City Stadium.
Bale tweeted a picture with team-mates James Rodriguez and Marcelo, saying: "Fantastic days training with jamesrodriguez and 12MarceloV, can't wait to get back to Cardiff for the Super Cup."
New signings Rodriguez and Toni Kroos were put through their paces under the watchful eye of Carlo Ancelotti, who has also secured Karim Benzema to a new contract that runs until 2019.
However, Benzema may yet find himself surplus to requirements, with Los Blancos rumoured to be chasing Radamel Falcao.
Angel Di Maria is also expected to leave the Bernabeu this summer, although PSG confirmed they are no longer in the running for the Argentine as he is too pricey.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments