Real Madrid is facing a significant challenge ahead of their highly anticipated first home game of the season against Real Valladolid on Sunday, August 25. The club has confirmed that Jude Bellingham, one of their standout players, will be sidelined due to an injury. The young English midfielder, who has been a key figure in Real Madrid’s squad, suffered a setback during the team’s training session on Friday, August 23. He sustained an injury to the plantar thin muscle in his right leg, which has been a cause for concern.
The injury was revealed through a statement from Real Madrid, which outlined the situation: “Following tests carried out today on our player Jude Bellingham by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he has been diagnosed with an injury to the plantar thin muscle of his right leg. Pending evaluation.” This diagnosis indicates that while the immediate impact is known, the full extent of the injury will require further assessment.
According to reports from Spanish media, Bellingham’s injury is expected to keep him out of action until after the international break in September. This period of absence comes at a crucial time for Real Madrid, as they aim to secure their first victory of the new La Liga season at their home ground, the Santiago Bernabeu. Bellingham, who played a central role in Real Madrid's campaign last year, was instrumental in their successes, including winning both the La Liga and Champions League titles.
In his absence, manager Carlo Ancelotti will have to adapt his strategy. Ancelotti confirmed during the press conference that Bellingham had to cut short his training session due to the injury: “Bellingham had a blow, he is being assessed,” Ancelotti said. The manager's comments suggest that the decision on whether Bellingham could potentially return sooner than expected is still up in the air.
With Bellingham ruled out, Ancelotti will likely turn to either Brahim Diaz or Arda Guler to fill the void in the midfield. Both players are expected to step up and play a crucial role in the upcoming match. Bellingham’s absence is particularly felt given his impressive debut season, where he scored 19 goals in 28 La Liga matches and added four goals in the Champions League. His performances last season were a major factor in Real Madrid's success, making his injury all the more significant.
Adding to the intrigue of the Valladolid match, it will also be the home debut for Kylian Mbappe in a Real Madrid jersey. Mbappe’s arrival has generated considerable excitement among fans, and his performance will be closely watched as he makes his first appearance at the Bernabeu. The combination of Bellingham’s injury and Mbappe’s debut makes the match a focal point for Real Madrid supporters and the wider football community.
