Comparing Gareth Bale's debut season with Ronaldo, Messi, Neymar, Hazard and Gotze

Gareth Bale finally silenced his critics by scoring the winner in Real Madrid's Copa Del Rey victory over arch enemies FC Barcelona. The Welsh international moved to the Spanish capitol this summer, after a long and tiring transfer saga between his former club Tottenham and Real Madrid.Bale, after some initial injury stints, established his position in the squad as a starter leading the attack on the right side and forming a successful 'BBC' partnership with Benzema and Ronaldo. With a trasnfer fee of91 million glued to his forehead, the pressure to deliver in every match was always there.But the challenge has been duely accepted by the winger as he has moved on to double figures for goals scored in his debut season. Bale has summed up a total of 20 goals and 15 assists in his first season in La Liga which is quite remarkable for someone who has just arrived on fresh new grounds.With his exciting introduction into the Spanish league, we take a look at stats of 5 other footballing icons,and how they have fared for their concerned club in their debut season.

#1 Mario Gotze

In 2013, Mario Gotze made his move from Boruusia Dortmund to their domestic rivals Bayern Munich after the German outfit made a €37 million bid, triggering a release clause in his contract.

The highly rated attacking midfielder was brought in to provide more diversity in the Bavarians already intimidating midfield. With exceptional playmaking abilities, high possessing speed and excellent technical and dribbling skill, the German is seen as one of the best young talents in the game.

Since his debut in the Bundesliga, the 21-year-old has contributed in various attacking positions, fulfilling the role of a 'False 9' which Pep Guardiola often utilises. He has made 24 appearances overall, netting on 8 occasions and assisting 6 times in the process.

#2 Eden Hazard

After playing eight years in the Ligue 1 for Lille, Eden Hazard completed his highly anticipated transfer move to Chelsea in 2012. The Belgian was brought in for a fee of £32 million and made his debut against Manchester City in the FA Community shield.

His creativity, exceptional ball carrying techniques and ability to change the game on his own put him on the map as one of the most dangerous players on the planet. In his debut season, he was impressive for the blues scoring 13 goals in all competitions and becoming a prominent addition down the left flank.

#3 Neymar

Brazilian wonderkid Neymar was purchased by FC Barcelona this summer after Santos agreed to a reported€57million fee. The 22-year-old was introduced into the Catalan hierarchy to increase the effectiveness of their attack and form a formidable duo with Lionel Messi.

Since wearing the Blaugrana colors, Neymar has started in some 25 games tallying 9 goals and 8 assists across all tournaments. His first Clasico performance was a memorable one as he registered a goal to his name on the night. But since the transfer saga and payment scandals came up, the Brazilian has fallen short of his anticipated standards.

#4 Lionel Messi

Coming up through the ranks of La Masia, Lionel Messi made his senior team debut in the 2005/06 season. He quickly drew comparisions with his predecessor Diego Maradona. The little man's near-perfect dribbling skills, exceptional close control and agility was something which was never seen before.

Under the guidance of then superstar, Ronaldinho, Messi had a fruitful debut season featuring on 25 occasions, netting 8 goals and playing superbly for a 19-year-old down the right flank.

#5 Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo was already ruling the footballing arena during his Manchester United days. He was viewed as one of the most complete players to play the sport with every kind of trick in his bag. The Portuguese superstar ended the 2008 campaign on a high note, achieving the double (Champions League and Premier League) for his club and scoring a massive 42 goals during the season.

Real Madrid splashed the cash for a then-record fee of £80 million which completed Ronaldo's boyhood dream of playing for Los Blancos. Making his debut in the 2009/10 season amongst a galaxy of superstars including Madrid legend Raul, Ronaldo quickly established himself as the core attraction in the Bernabeu netting an incredible 33 goals and providing 7 assists to his team mates. It was a marvelous figure considering he just got into the thick of things.

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Edited by Staff Editor