Real Madrid have been handed a blow, as key star Jude Bellingham has been ruled out of Friday’s clash with Real Sociedad.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side are set to travel to Anoeta to face Real Sociedad on Friday, with Los Blancos 11 points clear at the top of La Liga, and the first leg of their Champions League semi-final tie with Bayern Munich coming up next week.
They will have to navigate what will be a tough game against La Real without their undisputed player of the season in Bellingham, with Ancelotti confirming that he has a stomach problem.
Given the need to rotate before the Bayern game anyway, this could provide a good opportunity for a different player to shine.
Jude Bellingham absent from Real Madrid squad for Real Sociedad clash
Bellingham’s attacking midfield role has seen him play in an advanced position which allows him to make runs into the box, and Ancelotti has several options at his disposal.
Arda Guler could be given a rare start, after the summer signing from Fenerbahce finally shook off the injury issues that have plagued him since his arrival.
The talented teenager could play in Bellingham’s free role at the tip of the midfield diamond, and could showcase his creative abilities away at a tough ground.
Another candidate for the role could be Brahim Diaz, who shone in the position earlier this season when Bellingham was absent for a few games.
Jude Bellingham will be difficult to replace for Real Madrid
Bellingham has been sensational since his arrival from Borussia Dortmund, with the 20-year-old scoring 21 and assisting 10 times in 36 games across all competitions.
Last time out, Bellingham scored a stunning goal to win El Clasico in the final minute and continued his knack for turning up in the big moments to win Real Madrid points.
Given that the La Liga title looks set to return to the Santiago Bernabeu regardless, Ancelotti can afford to rest Bellingham for the Bayern game whilst he struggles with his issue, and one of Brahim or Guler can come in to prove why they should be given more opportunities.
