Bellingham has been dealing with this persistent shoulder issue since his first season in Spain, after dislocating it in a match against Rayo Vallecano in 11/2023. Instead of addressing the problem definitively, the 22-year-old opted for rehabilitation, allowing him to continue playing for Real Madrid and the England national team at Euro 2024.
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Jude Bellingham braces his left shoulder during Real Madrid's 1-0 victory against Getafe on 23/4/2025. Photo: Rex |
Jude Bellingham braces his left shoulder during Real Madrid's 1-0 victory against Getafe on 23/4/2025. Photo: Rex
Having not fully recovered, Bellingham decided to undergo surgery to resolve the issue after the FIFA Club World Cup. He started all 6 matches in the tournament, with Real Madrid exiting in the semi-finals after a 4-0 defeat to PSG.
"I'm going to have the surgery after the tournament. I'm tired of wearing the brace, especially when it's hot. It will be great to have my shoulder back, I'm really looking forward to it," Bellingham said about his decision to undergo surgery, following a 3-1 group stage win over Pachuca.
Bellingham is expected to return in October or November. He could miss 12 La Liga matches, including the El Clasico against Barcelona at the Bernabeu on 26/10. He will also miss the first 4 UEFA Champions League group stage matches, along with England's international fixtures in September and October.
In the summer of 2023, Bellingham joined Real Madrid from Dortmund for a total fee of 145 million USD. The English midfielder had a stellar first season, scoring 23 goals and providing 12 assists in 42 appearances across all competitions, helping the club win La Liga, the Spanish Super Cup, and the Champions League. Last season, he scored 15 goals and provided 15 assists in 58 appearances, but did not win any major titles.
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Coach Xabi Alonso (left) instructs Jude Bellingham during Real Madrid's 1-1 draw with Al Hilal in their first group H match of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup at Hard Rock Stadium, Miami, Florida, USA on 18/6. Photo: Reuters |
Coach Xabi Alonso (left) instructs Jude Bellingham during Real Madrid's 1-1 draw with Al Hilal in their first group H match of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup at Hard Rock Stadium, Miami, Florida, USA on 18/6. Photo: Reuters
Bellingham's long-term absence is a significant blow for new coach Xabi Alonso. Alonso played Bellingham in all 6 FIFA Club World Cup matches and currently has four other midfield options: Federico Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga, Aurelien Tchouameni, and Dani Ceballos.
In this transfer window, Real Madrid has prioritized strengthening its defense by adding three defenders: center-back Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth, right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold, and left-back Alvaro Carreras from Benfica.
Real Madrid will have a three-week break after the FIFA Club World Cup before returning for their La Liga opener against Osasuna at home on 19/8. The club requested a postponement to allow for more rest, but La Liga refused.
Compiled by Hong Duy
