Bellingham injury: When will Real Madrid’s star midfielder return?

Jude Bellingham, Real Madrid's 21-year-old midfield sensation, has quickly become one of the most talked-about players in football. However, the young star's remarkable rise has taken a significant physical toll. Just two games into the 2024/25 season, Bellingham was sidelined with a foot injury; he is expected to be out of action for at least a month. This setback not only affects Real Madrid's plans, but also raises questions about the demands placed on young athletes in modern football.

Bellingham's 2024 has been nothing short of exceptional. He played a crucial role in Madrid's path to the Champions League final as well as England's run to the final of the European Championship. However, the intense schedule of important matches and international commitments has left the young midfielder physically exhausted.

The midfielder himself acknowledged the strain his body had to endure. In a candid Instagram post, he expressed his frustration over the injury. “I hate nothing more than missing games, but I try to see the positive. Maybe my body is telling me that it needs a little more rest after a stressful year.”

Although they had a long holiday after the European Championships, it seems that it was not enough to get them back in top form for the new season. The Whites' doctors diagnosed the injury as plantar fasciitis, a disease of the foot. Bellingham will therefore be out of action for at least three weeks, and his absence could possibly extend to over a month.

Bellingham's injury poses a challenge for Real Madrid

The timing of Bellingham's injury is far from ideal for Real Madrid. The young star will miss several important matches, including La Liga games against Real Valladolid, Las Palmas and Real Betis. In addition, he will miss England's upcoming international campaign, which is also a major blow for the national team.

Los Blancos coach Carlo Ancelotti has already expressed concerns about the balance of his new team, especially after the frustrating draw against Mallorca in the first league match. The loss of Bellingham, one of his most influential players, makes it even more difficult to find the right formula on the pitch. Ancelotti had previously mentioned that Bellingham had sustained an injury and was being assessed, but the confirmation of a month-long absence is undoubtedly a setback.

Bellingham's injury also coincides with the absence of Eduardo Camavinga, who is out for another 5-6 weeks with a knee injury. Real Madrid therefore have problems with depth in midfield, putting additional pressure on veterans like Luka Modric and Dani Ceballos to step up their performances during this critical period.

When will Belligham return?

Although Bellingham's injury is a major blow, there is a glimmer of hope for Real Madrid fans. Mundo Deportivo understands that Bellingham will be keen to return in time for the first Madrid derby of the season against Atletico Madrid, scheduled for the weekend of September 28-29. This high-profile match is always a key moment in the season, and having Bellingham back in the squad would be a huge boost for Los Blancos.

Meanwhile, the 21-year-old has vowed to support his teammates from the sidelines. “I'm frustrated but I will support the boys like a fan until I can rejoin them at my best and strongest,” he wrote in his Instagram post.

PHOTOS: IMAGO