Zidane confirms Bale will miss Real Madrid's trip to Athletic Bilbao
Bale returned in midweek but will not be risked on Saturday
The Welshman was impressive in a cameo in the Copa del Rey
Real Madrid will once again be out Gareth Bale this weekend as they travel to Athletic Bilbao in La Liga
Bale returned in the Copa del Rey in midweek, setting up two goals, but he will not be risked at San Mames.
"It is nothing serious, it is just a niggle and, as always, we don't want to take any risks," Zidane confirmed in a press conference on Friday.
"Gareth's problem is that he is a very strong, very powerful player and he needs to feel right to play.
"As in many previous occasions it is the calf. It is a tough time for him right now, but we will come through it and all the people around Gareth have to show him a lot of affection until he is better.
"We can't forget he is an important player for us and when he is fit, he is phenomenal. We need to be patient."
Madrid start the weekend eight points behind leaders Barcelona and four points behind second-placed Valencia.
