Real Madrid CF winning trophies have been the most usual scene in club football lately. They bagged one more now with the inaugural edition of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup in their hands. The triumph got a lot of joy, but a post-match scene is surely raising tension among the fans, as star attacking midfielder Jude Bellingham was found limping after the triumph, clearly indicating another injury and raising concerns about the extent.
Read below and find out the latest injury update on Jude Bellingham, the impact of his absence on the Real Madrid squad, possible return date, probable replacements, and everything else related to it.
Jude Bellingham Injury Update
Real Madrid were having a comfortable lead in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup grand finale by three goals to nil against CF Pachuca. Vinicius Jr. had converted a penalty in the 84th minute. In the midst of all these goods, Jude Bellingham had to be subbed off just minutes later in the 88th, after he was facing some discomfort in his right quadriceps.
As per media outlet Marca, Bellingham left the field even before the trophy presentation. He contacted the team’s medical staff very soon, who instructed him to get his injured leg bandaged. He later joined the celebration but was attentive to not put weight on his right leg during the traditional “champions” jump.
Impact of Jude Bellingham Injury on Real Madrid Squad and Strategy
Real Madrid have been one of the worst hit clubs by injuries this season. They saw a lot of their key players in and out of the team for minor and even severe injuries. At present their key defenders Dani Carvajal, David Alaba, Eder Militao, and Ferland Mandy are injured and out. However, the freshest inclusion Jude Bellingham being a player in the forward lines, caters to a different segment.
The No. 5 was signed for a tough 113 million Euros last summer. Since his entry, he has delivered to the fullest. He has 30 goals and 19 assists in just 63 games to date. He was one of the best players alongside Vinicius and Rodrygo last season. This season too he has been on fire.
Missing him would be a big blow, especially when it comes to giving assists and creating chances. Without him the Real Madrid midfield would feel a lot blank, and they would be forced to play a holding game. Having less chances creations, especially against their next opponent Sevilla FC might hurt a little. Otherwise, the club has easy opponents in the coming days, so less worry for Carlo Ancelotti.
Possible Replacements and Tactical Adjustments
Jude Bellingham practically has no natural replacements in the team. He is the only CAM. However, there are other midfielders though who can fit into his role. Club captain Luka Modric can be a good fit. Other midfielders like Federico Valverde and Dani Ceballos can also be good to give a try.
Tactically Carlo Ancelotti might need to alter a bit if Jude Bellingham is absent for long. The Italian prefers a 4-3-3 attacking approach, with Jude going front as a No. 10. But with the injury concern, he might need to go for a 4-3-3 holding approach. That is, they might attack less and play the game in the centre more while holding the ball. Any other player who replaces him is a central midfielder, so the tendency should ideally be to operate more from the middle and give through balls when opportunity strikes.
Jude Bellingham Return date
Jude Bellingham’s return date is not known yet, as there are no official updates on the extent of injury. However, teammate Vinicius Jr has said (quoting Goal.com), “I think it’s nothing. He was able to play the whole game. I’ll talk to him now. Hopefully, it’s nothing and we hope he can be with us for the game against Sevilla.”
This clears the air that the injury might not be a severe one, but again Vinicius is also not sure and is hoping, so nothing can be guaranteed, especially after looking at the post-match scenes.
Also Read: Manchester United Injury Update: Mason Mount latest details, recovery timeline
FAQs
Q. What type of injury does Jude Bellingham have?
Jude Bellingham’s exact injury is not known yet. However, it is known that the he was facing some discomfort in his right quadriceps.
Q. When did Jude Bellingham get injured?
Jude Bellingham had to be subbed off 88th minute, in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup grand finale after he was facing some discomfort in his right quadriceps.
Q. What is the expected recovery timeline for Jude Bellingham?
Jude Bellingham’s return date is not known yet, as there are no official updates on the extent of injury. However with Vinicius Jr. saying that he expects it to be “nothing”, we can hope for Bellingham to return to action soon.
Q. Who are the potential replacements for Jude Bellingham?
Jude Bellingham practically has no natural replacements in the team. Club captain Luka Modric can be a good fit. Other midfielders like Federico Valverde and Dani Ceballos can also be good to give a try.
Q. Has Jude Bellingham suffered similar injuries in the past?
Yes, Jude Bellingham has suffered similar injuries in the past. For muscle, shoulder injuries and knee sprain he has been out for months in the past for Real Madrid.