Zinedine Zidane: Gareth Bale appears less enthusiastic than his Real Madrid team-mates upon greeting new boss

Wales international is reportedly unhappy with the decision to sack Rafael Benitez at the Santiago Bernabeu

Real Madrid have released footage of the moment new manager Zinedine Zidane greeted his players for the first time since his appointment - and some seem more enthusiastic than others.

The Frenchman replaced Rafael Benítez this week in a move which has reportedly unsettled Gareth Bale, the world’s most expensive player, who has been linked relentlessly with a move to Manchester United.

Zidane is captured strolling across the bench in the Madrid dressing room, notably passing an empty spot where Bale was supposed to be sat, before eventually finding the former Tottenham forward.

Unlike his team-mates, Bale doesn’t stand up immediately and instead shakes his new manager’s hand sat down before climbing to his feet and exchanging a joke with the Madrid boss.

Speaking on Tuesday, Zidane admitted: “I understand that Gareth could be annoyed by Rafa’s departure because he was a very important coach in his career.

“But he is going to receive the same affection from me. He is fundamental for the team and what he has been doing of late for us on the pitch is phenomenal. He will have all my support so that he continues to play well for us.”