The three reasons why Gareth Bale decided to join LAFC

Gareth Bale's domestic future is in the United States of America, with the Welsh captain having agreed to sign for Los Angeles FC in Major League Soccer.

The move comes after Real Madrid elected not to extend Bale's deal with the Spanish giants, so he became a free-agent, moving to the USA in the hope of more regular competitive football ahead of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Links to Cardiff City had followed Bale for much of the summer to this point, especially when agent Jonathan Barnett confirmed that the forward's next move wouldn't be motivated by money.

Yet, LAFC announced their agreement with Bale on Saturday evening, confirming that he'd join up with his new teammates in July.

The BBC has outlined a list of reasons for Bale's decision to move to LAFC and we take a look at them here.

Regular football will prepare Gareth Bale for the World Cup

It may be unfair to suggest that Bale's focus has been on his international career for some time, but it is obvious that heading into Wales' first World Cup in 64 years the forward is motivated to be there and ready to contribute.

Having not been a regular starter with Real Madrid, the World Cup being played in its usual summer slot wouldn't have benefited the former Spurs winger, yet the decision to host the tournament in Qatar in November has given Bale a real chance to play regular football in Los Angeles and be match-fit for the tournament.

Gareth Bale could earn a lot of money in endorsement fees in LA

LA is the one of the hubs of American commercialism, with it carrying one of the biggest sports markets in North America.

We've seen how LeBron James' brand exploded after he signed with the Los Angeles Lakers and, whilst Bale's salary isn't as high as it was in Madrid, he could now capitalise on the commercial benefits on offer in Los Angeles.

Endorsement deals will come flooding through Bale's door in his new location, something which will no doubt entice the player as he heads for the back-end of his footballing career.

MLS football could extend Gareth Bale's career

Life in Madrid became difficult for Bale near the end, especially as fans accused him of caring more about golf than performing for Los Blancos.

Living in LA is a lot more relaxed, with fans having a completely different attitude and approach to following MLS teams.

There won't be constant pressure on Bale to show his love for the team, and he will be able to just play his football and enjoy a peaceful life.

In turn, this could actually reinvigorate his love of playing football at club level and even persuade him to extend his career.