Bellingham, the dilemma

The big question at Real Madrid right now is Jude Bellingham. Xabi Alonso is unsure whether to start him in the Madrid derby, knowing that doing so would send either Arda Güler or Franco Mastantuono to the bench. Physically, Bellingham is ready, but his lack of match rhythm continues to spark doubts at Valdebebas.

The shoulder injury that sidelined him last year is no longer a concern. More than two months have passed since his surgery, and the Englishman worked tirelessly to return: double and even triple sessions combining gym and physio work impressed the coaching staff. “He’s always the first to arrive and the last to leave,” they said at the training ground. The operation was a success, and there is no pain or risk of relapse—only a lack of sharpness.

A measured comeback

Since the Club World Cup, he has played only 22 minutes: two against Espanyol and 20 versus Levante. Jumping straight from that to a derby start feels like a monumental leap. Yet if anyone can handle it, it’s Bellingham. Inside the dressing room, there is total faith in his ability to perform from the first whistle, though caution remains part of the conversation.

If Alonso chooses to hold him back, Güler will stay in midfield and Mastantuono on the wing, keeping a system that has been working. If Jude starts, one of them must give way. It’s a tactical puzzle that shapes the entire game plan.

Alonso’s big call

Sooner or later, Bellingham will regain his status as an untouchable starter. The question is not if he will be decisive, but when. For now, the immediate decision lies with Xabi Alonso, who must determine in the next three days whether to risk him at the Metropolitano or wait until he gains more rhythm.

The belief in Bellingham is strong, but so is the dilemma. He has put Real Madrid in check, forcing Alonso into the first major decision of his reign at the Bernabéu.