Real Madrid fan shocked at Gareth Bale's thinner physique six months on from ripped picture

A shocked Real Madrid supporter has been left stunned by Gareth Bale's notably thinner physique, with the forward facing an uncertain future in Spain.

Bale has been snapped in training today, but appears to have lost some muscle mass over a six month period before injury woes derailed his season.

The transformation has caused several online users to become speechless, with one account comparing the forward's condition over the last half-year.

'At what point did Bale lose so much muscle mass?' one post from a Madrid fan account read. 'Only six months' difference.'

The former Tottenham man uploaded a picture of himself in a session today, the first time he has posted about his club on social media since August.

He has not played for them since the 1-0 victory against Real Betis, and his campaign took another blow when he tested positive for coronavirus.

Spanish publication AS took aim at the winger in the wake of his upload.

They said: 'Bale has never been characterised by being excessively close with fans on his social networks, but perhaps this absence has been striking for everyone.

'The Welsh footballer had been absent from his official profiles since mid-November and had not shared anything related to Real Madrid since last August. Until today.'

Speaking this month, Carlo Ancelotti said: 'Bale is not injured, but he is not well.

'We have to do everything possible to make sure he feels well. If you are not feeling well, you are scared of having an issue. We have to evaluate it.'

Bale played for Wales in November for their 5-1 victory over Belarus, the last time he has taken to the field competitively.

The 32-year-old's contract is set to run down at the end of the season - and it is increasingly unlikely that he will be offered an extension by the club.