Bellingham gives Xabi Alonso a tough decision

Jude Bellingham’s strong comeback from injury has forced coach Xabi Alonso into a difficult choice: to drop the young talent Franco Mastantuono from the starting lineup for the upcoming El Clasico against Barcelona.

After a long period sidelined due to left shoulder surgery, Bellingham returned to training at the Valdebebas center determined to regain his top form. During the international break, the English midfielder maximized his recovery time and prepared for the crucial phase of the season. According to Spanish media, he is currently in his best condition since the injury earlier this year.

Bellingham made his return on September 27 in a 2-5 defeat to Atletico Madrid at the Club World Cup. In that match, he faced criticism for a lackluster performance and failing to keep up with the high intensity. Even coach Xabi Alonso admitted it was a mistake to start Bellingham too soon instead of allowing him more time to reintegrate. “I took a risk and it didn’t pay off. Bellingham needs more time,” Alonso said after the game.

Since then, the Englishman has focused on improving his fitness and regaining his usual form. In the 1-0 victory against Getafe, he played 86 minutes, leading the midfield. Moreover, in the Champions League match against Juventus, Bellingham became the hero by scoring the only goal, securing the win for Real Madrid. These performances helped him reclaim his role as the “midfield boss” at Bernabeu.

Due to his impressive form, Xabi Alonso decided to include Bellingham back in the starting eleven for El Clasico. According to the tactical plan, Real Madrid will field a midfield trio of Bellingham, Aurelien Tchouameni, and Arda Guler, while Fede Valverde will push higher on the right wing as Dani Carvajal is almost fully recovered. This change means Franco Mastantuono – the 18-year-old Argentine prospect – will be benched, similar to the match against Atletico last month.

Mastantuono is one of the fan favorites at Real Madrid due to his creative and bold style, but Alonso believes that in a high-stakes match like El Clasico, Bellingham’s experience is more crucial. “He is returning at the right time, with excellent form and spirit. We need players like him in big games,” a Real Madrid insider revealed.

Besides adjusting the midfield personnel, Alonso is also expected to change the game approach by reducing the number of attacking players to enhance ball control. His goal is to help Real Madrid dominate possession against Barcelona, especially with Bellingham ready to resume his role as the playmaker.

Bellingham’s return not only boosts Real Madrid’s confidence ahead of El Clasico but also confirms his importance in Xabi Alonso’s long-term plan, as the coach gradually shapes a playing style balanced between control and effectiveness.

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