‘Doesn’t have to change’ - Why Jude Bellingham’s attitude is not a problem for Real Madrid as Carlo Ancelotti reacts to yellow card for petulant show of dissent

The England international was disappointed not to see a domestic rival cautioned on the back of what he considered to be a foul. The match officials disagreed with the all-action midfielder, with referee Isidro Diaz de Mera yellow carding Bellingham for his outburst.

With passion a big part of Bellingham’s game – along with the 17 goals he has recorded in all competitions this season – Blancos boss Carlo Ancelotti told reporters when asked if he will be looking to rein the talented 20-year-old in: “It has not been a protest. It has been a foul in which they have not taken out a card. He doesn’t have to change his attitude because that’s how he has scored 17 goals. He doesn’t have to change anything he does in the field because he’s making it spectacular.”

Bellingham has been nursing a shoulder problem of late, while Real saw Rodrygo forced off in the closing stages of a dramatic 1-0 victory over Alaves. Ancelotti said when offering an update on the Brazilian forward’s fitness: “Rodrygo is a little tired.”

Madrid now have an opportunity to rest tired bodies and minds as they have reached the Liga winter break and will not be back in action until playing host to Real Mallorca on January 3, 2024.