The international break has concluded, and Real Madrid is preparing for their upcoming match this weekend. Unfortunately, they will be without the suspended Fede Valverde for their trip to Mallorca, creating an opportunity for Jude Bellingham to return to the starting eleven for the first time in two months.
Bellingham sustained a hamstring injury in early February and spent six weeks recovering. He made a comeback during the Madrid derby just before the international break. He is eager to secure a starting position ahead of a pivotal series of matches for Los Blancos, particularly the looming Champions League quarter-final against Bayern Munich.
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However, starting Bellingham against Mallorca may prove challenging, as Real Madrid feels he is out of form after having not participated in England’s two international matches. This decision has left club management puzzled, as reported by Marca.
Real Madrid hoped to see Bellingham in action
Initially, Real Madrid was displeased with Bellingham’s call-up, but they had little control over the situation. Upon his return to England, the club hoped he could regain his match fitness with some valuable playing time, but ultimately, the decision was made for him not to participate.
Real Madrid is perplexed by this outcome and feels a degree of frustration. Had it been known that Bellingham wouldn’t see any playing time, they would have preferred he remain at Valdebebas for the duration of the international break. Now, they will only have a couple of days to work with him before the match at Son Moix on Saturday.
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Given these circumstances, it is highly unlikely that Bellingham will be risked as a starter against Mallorca, although he may have opportunities to make an impactful contribution from the bench. Valverde’s position in the lineup is more likely to be filled by players such as Eduardo Camavinga or Franco Mastantuono.