Di Maria: I've not asked to leave Real Madrid

Angel Di Maria has admitted that he knew Gareth Bale’s arrival would have an impact on his playing time for Real Madrid but has rejected rumours he wants to leave the club.

Bale's arrival in September for a world-record €100 million raised questions about Di Maria's status at los Blancos and prompted suggestions that he might leave the Bernabeu.

Di Maria, who scored and made an assist in Madrid's 3-2 victory over Valencia, says he expected to play less frequently, but denied that he was looking for a way out of the club.

“I knew that a €100 million player was coming and he had to play,” Di Maria told reporters.

“No I have not asked out. My head is at Real Madrid. You [journalists] put that I was going to Tottenham or another club. You know where these reports come out."

The Argentine international also refuted claims that he had requested a renewal to his contract.

He added: ”I’m happy at Real Madrid. I never asked for a renewal. A player who does not play cannot request a renewal.”

Di Maria has played in 15 of 17 league games for Carlo Ancelotti's men this season.