Image source: Instagram/@judebellingham
Real Madrid has confirmed that their star midfielder, Jude Bellingham, suffered a muscle injury during training on Friday. The injury, affecting his right leg, is expected to sideline him until mid-September, just after the international break, according to a source from ESPN.
This injury comes at a crucial time, as Madrid is set to play their first home match of the season against Real Valladolid at the Bernabéu on Sunday. This game will also mark Kylian Mbappé’s home debut following his high-profile transfer from Paris Saint-Germain this summer.
“Jude Bellingham has been diagnosed with an injury in the plantaris muscle of his right leg after tests conducted by our medical team,” the club stated in an official announcement. Coach Carlo Ancelotti added during a Friday press conference, “Bellingham got a knock, and we’re still evaluating it.”
Jude Bellingham has been a key player for Madrid, scoring 19 league goals last season. He also delivered a standout performance in the UEFA Super Cup win against Atalanta just last week.
As expectations run high for Real Madrid in the 2024-25 season, especially with the addition of Mbappé, the team has faced some early criticism. They recently dropped points in a 1-1 draw away at Mallorca. Ancelotti acknowledged the need for improvement, saying, “We lacked balance at times, but it’s a clear issue with a clear solution.”
Despite the challenges, Ancelotti dismissed any concerns about fitting forward Rodrygo into the lineup alongside Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, and Jude Bellingham. “Rodrygo is very happy here,” Ancelotti reassured. “He’s been working hard and has been one of the best in these games.”
As Madrid fans eagerly await Jude Bellingham’s return, the team must adapt and push forward in his absence.
