José Mourinho gives up on signing Gareth Bale

The Manchester United manager has said his pursuit of Real Madrid attacking midfielder Gareth Bale is 'over' after the Welshman started in the UEFA Super Cup.

Bale has been a long term United target, and Mourinho confirmed his interest in the player before the Super Cup.

The Portuguese however hinged United's interest in Bale on the player been unwanted at Real Madrid. Mourinho went on to say that, if the 27 year old didn't start in the Super Cup, Madrid may have given United the green light for a move.

Bale however started the game and was brilliant on the night. And according to Mourinho, it is clear to all that Real Madrid will keep Bale.

I think so, I think clearly the club [Real Madrid] wants him, the manager wants him and he wants the club.

Mourinho told  MUTV when asked if Bale's start means he will he staying put at Madrid.

So for me, game over, even before it started, but game over clearly because I think now everybody knows that he’s going to stay.

Bale endured an injury ravaged last season that saw him start only 17 La Liga matches. He has however participated fully in Real Madrid's preseason and will be hoping for a better season.

Bale has enjoyed a highly successful spell at Real Madrid since his move from Tottenham in 2013. He signed a new deal that should keep him at the Bernabeu till 2022 last October.