Real Madrid’s preparations for their blockbuster showdown against Manchester City have suffered a significant setback, with key midfielder Jude Bellingham now expected to miss the crucial fixture due to injury concerns.
According to reports from COPE, Bellingham is on the road to recovery and has recently resumed light training with the ball. However, the medical staff are unwilling to take risks, believing the England international is not yet physically ready to return to competitive action. His absence would be a major blow to Alvaro Arbeloa’s tactical plans, given Bellingham’s influence in both attack and midfield control this season.
The injury list does not end there. Defensive pillar Éder Militão and midfield option Dani Ceballos are also expected to be sidelined for the high-stakes encounter, further weakening Madrid’s depth at a critical stage of the campaign.
Meanwhile, all eyes are on Kylian Mbappé, who is racing against time to be fit for the clash. The French star is reportedly dealing with knee pain but remains determined to attempt a late recovery. His availability will likely be decided closer to matchday, making him a major doubt rather than a confirmed starter.
With Bellingham, Militão, and Ceballos likely unavailable, Real Madrid could be forced into tactical adjustments when they face the reigning champions, Manchester City. The match, already billed as a European heavyweight battle, now carries an added layer of uncertainty.