'I'm still in the sling' - Jude Bellingham reveals further problems with shoulder injury despite continued Real Madrid appearances

Bellingham has been a core part of Carlo Ancelotti's lineup ever since he joined Real Madrid from Borussia Dortmund in 2023. He had an impressive debut campaign in Madrid where he played a key role in winning the Champions League and La Liga titles, while he continues to dazzle in a Los Blancos shirt this term.

Despite his continued appearances for the Spanish champions, the England international revealed that he is still recovering from a shoulder injury that he sustained in November 2023. In the current campaign, the 21-year-old has made 20 appearances across all competitions where he has scored seven goals and provided six assists.

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, the English midfielder said of his shoulder: "It’s okay, okay. I’m still in the sling, which is a little uncomfortable, but the overall feeling is pretty good."

When asked about the club's injury struggles this season, Bellingham added: "The number of games. The staff is looking for solutions to see what we need, trying to manage this and doing it very well. But the load of minutes accumulates, causes fatigue and that takes its toll.

"There comes a point that affects performance, especially when you compete against strong rivals and you need speed. But it is what it is. We have to play a lot of games and we will try to do our best. In the summer we can rest a lot, but now we have games every three days."

The reigning Spanish and European champions are back in action on Wednesday as they take on Mexican club Pachuca in the final of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup.