Jude Bellingham told he's 'declined' since Kylian Mbappe's arrival at Real Madrid as Spanish press claim 'nothing works like before' in scathing inquest

Real Madrid have struggled to find their footing this season and things hit a low point after Carlo Ancelotti's side fell to a 1-0 loss against Ligue 1 side Lille on the second matchday of the Champions League. Spanish outlet AS has now listed a detailed explanation of the drop in form for Bellingham compared to last season, as they noted Kylian Mbappe's arrival and the Englishman's change of position is a key reason why 'nothing works like before'.

AS wrote: "In Bellingham's case, the decline is much more palpable: he has only two assists, without goals, in seven games played. Last season, after seven games, he had scored six goals. These figures should not be compared coldly, because his role now, since the arrival of Mbappe, is very different, but the Englishman is still looking for his best version as a midfielder"

The inquest noted that several other things are not working for the reigning European champions right now, including Real's struggles to play a vertical style of football since Toni Kroos' retirement. Vinicius Jr.'s output has decreased, with the Brazilian dribbling and shooting less than last season, while nobody is sure what formation will get the best out of Ancelotti's stars.

Another issue arises from Mbappe's inability to be a difference-maker so far, although a lack of sharpness against Lille can be excused considering he had only just recovered from injury.

Bellingham has also suffered from exhaustion after a tiring summer at Euro 2024 with England as they ventured into the final of the tournament. He will hope to pick up some sort of form ahead of the international break when Real Madrid take on Villarreal on Saturday, October 5.