Jude Bellingham recovery ahead of schedule? Potential return date for Real Madrid superstar after shoulder surgery

Having struggled with a long-standing ailment, which was forcing him to wear uncomfortable strapping and play through pain, the decision was taken during the FIFA Club World Cup for Bellingham to undergo an operation.

That procedure was carried out successfully, with initial reports suggesting that the England international would be out of action for several months - potentially through to November as he sat out La Liga, Champions League and World Cup qualification fixtures.

It is now being claimed by AS journalist Ruben Martin that Bellingham could be back in early October, making him available for the first Clasico of the 2025-26 campaign - which takes place when Barcelona visit Santiago Bernabeu on October 26 - and England duty.

Martin has posted on social media: “Bellingham's recovery is progressing well. The Englishman wants to be available before the international break in early October, but the club prefers to be more cautious. We'll see if he can ultimately shorten the timeframe.”

Real are understandably reluctant to take any risks on Bellingham’s fitness as a setback in his rehabilitation would lead to an even longer spell on the sidelines. The 22-year-old is, however, eager to start his season as soon as possible.