Are Real Madrid taking Jude Bellingham risk? Surprising return date for England international pencilled in after missing La Liga & Nations League action through injury

The 21-year-old midfielder was forced out of a La Liga clash with Mallorca on August 18 after taking a blow to his foot. It was expected that he would miss at least a month of action before rebuilding his fitness and coming back into contention.

Bellingham has sat out league outings in Spain, while physical ailments prevented him from forming part of England's squad for the start of their latest UEFA Nations League campaign. The 2024 Ballon d’Or contender is still in Spain working on his recovery.

According to The Athletic, Bellingham could be recalled by Real for their first fixture after the international break. Carlo Ancelotti’s side are due to take in a trip to Real Sociedad on September 14. It is suggested that Bellingham could figure in that travelling party, while potentially taking to the field.

Ferland Mendy is also expected to be available for the Blancos, with Aurelien Tchouameni another to be making positive progress in his rehabilitation from injury. Jacobo Ramon may be asked to cover for Eder Militao in defence – as the Brazilian has become the latest to pick up a knock – while Eduardo Camavinga is not expected to return until the end of September.