Xabi Alonso Confirms Hope for Jude Bellingham’s Early Return

Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has said he “wants to be optimistic” about Jude Bellingham’s recovery, as he confirmed he is hoping to have the midfielder back in action before October, after shoulder surgery ruled him out this summer. Bellingham has had shoulder surgery and will be out for up to three months.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Speaking in his press conference ahead of Real Madrid’s visit to Real Sociedad on Saturday, Alonso confirmed the club will not take any risks with Bellingham, but said he is hopeful the midfielder will soon be ready to return following injury.

Alonso said: “He [Bellingham] is doing well. He is doing well. He is on the field and close. We have to continue without taking risks, but we are waiting and hopefully it will be sooner than later.”

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Bellingham has returned to group training and has looked sharp in recent sessions. Alonso and the club’s medical team are following a strict policy of taking no risks and ensuring the midfielder is fully ready before stepping onto the pitch again. Real Madrid, who are currently leading La Liga with four wins from four matches, originally expected Bellingham to be out until early October, but a quicker return remains a possibility.

WHAT NEXT FOR REAL MADRID?

Real Madrid take on Marseille for their Champions League opener and will then host Espanyol for La Liga, aiming to make it 5 for 5 in their league campaign with all eyes on Bellingham’s fitness and whether the England international is available. Real Madrid are off to a positive start this season, already five points ahead of Barcelona with four matches played with the Catalans having played one less match.