Jude Bellingham sidelined for 3 weeks due to ankle sprain, Real Madrid have announced. The midfield maestro of Real Madrid, Jude Bellingham, will be sidelined for several weeks following an ankle injury sustained during Saturday's triumph against Girona. The club confirmed that Bellingham suffered a sprained ankle, necessitating a cautious approach to his recovery.
"Following tests carried out today on Jude Bellingham by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he has been diagnosed with a sprain in his left ankle. His recovery will be monitored," stated the official Real Madrid website.
Although hopes were initially raised for Bellingham's swift return, it's now clear that his absence will extend beyond Tuesday's anticipated clash against Red Bull Leipzig in the Champions League's Round of 16. Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti, along with the medical team, had entertained the possibility of Bellingham's participation, but prudence dictates his absence from the upcoming matches.
"Bellingham will be expected to make his return when Real Madrid host Leipzig in the return leg, which will be played on March 6th," revealed Real Madrid's update. Ancelotti is keen on ensuring the midfielder's full recovery before reintroducing him to competitive action.
Bellingham's injury was a blow to Real Madrid, occurring during a match where he had already contributed significantly, netting two goals before being substituted in the 57th minute. Real Madrid's subsequent confirmation of a "high-grade sprain in his left ankle" underlines the severity of the setback.
Journalist Jose Luis Sanchez reported, "The England star faces a period of up to three weeks on the sidelines." This timeframe aligns with Real Madrid's cautious approach, aiming to facilitate Bellingham's complete recuperation.
The timing couldn't be more challenging for Real Madrid, who have recently solidified their lead atop the table. Bellingham's absence potentially sidelines him for pivotal encounters, including clashes against RB Leipzig in the Champions League and La Liga fixtures against Rayo Vallecano, Sevilla, and Valencia.
Bellingham's stellar form this season underscores his importance to Real Madrid's success, having contributed to 28 goals in just 29 appearances. His absence, coupled with the loss of Antonio Rudiger to injury, poses significant challenges for Ancelotti's squad.
As Real Madrid continue their pursuit of titles in both domestic and European competitions, Bellingham will focus on his rehabilitation, aiming for a swift return to action. With the Champions League encounter against RB Leipzig looming, Real Madrid will seek to adapt their strategy to cope with Bellingham's absence while maintaining their competitive edge.
Bellingham's injury serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of football and the necessity for depth within the squad to navigate such challenges successfully. As the midfielder embarks on his recovery journey, the spotlight remains on Real Madrid's ability to maintain their momentum in his absence.