Real Madrid and England national team fans are on edge as concerns grow over an injury to Jude Bellingham, the rising star who has been a crucial player for both his club and country.
Bellingham, who has been celebrated for his technical abilities, vision, and finishing, suffered a dislocation to his left shoulder during a match against Rayo Vallecano on November 5, 2023. Since then, the 20-year-old midfielder has been playing through pain to support Real Madrid’s campaign. However, there is a looming possibility that Bellingham may need to undergo surgery, which could sideline him for up to three months.
Real Madrid’s Midfield Dynamo
Bellingham’s impact at Real Madrid has been monumental since joining the club in 2023 for a fee of €103 million. In his debut season, he became the club’s top league scorer, helped them win the La Liga title and the Champions League, and was voted La Liga Player of the Season. His stats for Real Madrid in the 2023-2024 La Liga season are impressive:
- 28 appearances
- 19 goals
- 6 assists
- Rating of 8.04
Real Madrid has a deep squad, including midfield maestros like Luka Modrić, Toni Kroos, and Federico Valverde. Yet, Bellingham’s potential absence will undoubtedly be felt. The young Englishman has quickly become a linchpin in the team’s midfield, combining his youthful energy with seasoned professionalism.
England’s Euro 2024 Preparations
As Gareth Southgate, the manager of the England national team, prepares to finalize his squad for Euro 2024, Bellingham’s injury poses a significant challenge. Southgate, who has been managing the England team since 2016 and led them to the finals of UEFA Euro 2020, relies heavily on Bellingham as a No. 10, playing off star striker Harry Kane.
Kane, who moved to Bayern Munich for a record €110 million, is also in top form. He scored 36 goals in his debut Bundesliga season, winning his first European Golden Shoe award. Kane’s partnership with Bellingham has been pivotal for England, and losing Bellingham could disrupt the team’s dynamics.
Potential Impact on Euro 2024
Bellingham has represented England at various youth levels and made his senior debut in November 2020. He played in UEFA Euro 2020 and the 2022 FIFA World Cup, showing his importance to the national team. His absence in Euro 2024 would be a significant blow to England’s chances.
The England squad is robust, featuring talents like Phil Foden, Declan Rice, and Bukayo Saka. However, Bellingham’s unique skill set and recent form make him irreplaceable. Southgate is expected to announce the final squad on Saturday, and fans will be eagerly awaiting news on Bellingham’s fitness.
Looking Ahead
For now, Real Madrid and England will hope for the best as they await further medical evaluations of Bellingham’s shoulder. The young star’s resilience and determination have been evident throughout his career, and fans will be rooting for his swift recovery.
As the football world watches, the potential three-month absence of Jude Bellingham could be a defining moment for both Real Madrid and England, testing the depth and adaptability of both squads in the crucial months ahead.
