Real Madrid’s midfielder, Jude Bellingham, has been declared fit for Saturday’s highly anticipated La Liga clash with Granada, putting an end to concerns surrounding his recent injury scare. The announcement comes from the club’s head coach, Carlo Ancelotti, who confirmed the 20-year-old’s availability in a press conference.
Bellingham, who has been a standout performer for Los Blancos in the ongoing 2023-24 campaign, recently battled a shoulder problem that forced him to miss both Real Madrid and England’s fixtures during the November international break. Despite the setback, the English international made a triumphant return, scoring in consecutive appearances against Cadiz and Napoli.
However, doubts arose when Bellingham was unable to complete Friday’s training session due to “some discomfort in his ankle.” Ancelotti addressed these concerns, assuring fans that the young midfielder would be fit for the Granada clash.
“Bellingham is fit to play tomorrow. He will be fine, and he will play the game. It’s just that he’s had some discomfort in his ankle,” Ancelotti reassured during the press conference.
The Real Madrid coach also took a moment to commend Bellingham’s unexpected goal-scoring prowess this season. With 15 goals in 16 appearances and four assists, Bellingham’s contribution has been vital to Real Madrid’s success. Ancelotti expressed his surprise at the midfielder’s goal-scoring form, highlighting the player’s value beyond just finding the back of the net.
“Bellingham is very respected in the team not only for the goals he scores but for the work he does. We have never asked Bellingham to score goals. He has to continue like that, and there will come a time when he won’t score goals,” Ancelotti added.
The Italian coach also praised Jude Bellingham’s smooth adaptation to the team, likening his surprise to when he first saw legendary players like Kaka, Cruyff, and Zidane. Ancelotti noted that Bellingham possesses qualities reminiscent of Brazilian great Kaka.
In other team news, Ancelotti revealed that goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga has returned to fitness after a thigh issue. However, Andriy Lunin will retain his place in the starting lineup for the Granada clash, with Kepa expected to feature in the upcoming match against Real Betis.
Real Madrid, currently leading the La Liga table tied on points with Girona, aims for a fifth consecutive victory in all competitions. Ancelotti emphasized the importance of maintaining the team’s quality and efficiency, attributing their successful run to the collective effort of the entire squad.
