Jude Bellingham misses Real Madrid training as injury fears grow with La Liga title battle heating up

According to Relevo, Bellingham felt minor muscular issues on Thursday. While the club’s medical team is not overly alarmed and currently views the situation as a precautionary measure, his absence from collective training has nevertheless raised questions about his availability for Sunday’s crucial match against Celta Vigo.

While star forwards Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior rejoined full training on Friday after nursing minor muscular issues of their own earlier in the week, Bellingham’s status remains uncertain. Madrid’s medical staff are closely monitoring the situation, and a detailed medical report is still awaited.

In addition to fitness issues in attack and midfield, Real Madrid are also bracing for changes in their defensive lineup. Injuries and suspensions have forced Ancelotti into yet another defensive shuffle, with left-back Fran Garcia and centre-half Raul Asencio expected to start in their respective roles. On the opposite flank, Lucas Vazquez is the likely candidate to feature once again at right-back, offering stability and experience. Meanwhile, Aurelien Tchouameni, traditionally deployed in a holding midfield role, may once again be called upon to provide emergency cover in central defence.

Real Madrid are under no illusions about the stakes this weekend. They know that anything short of three points against Celta Vigo could severely damage their hopes of overhauling Barcelona in the final weeks of the season. Should the Catalan giants manage to secure a result against Real Valladolid, Madrid would need a victory to remain within striking distance, potentially just four points behind, with a vital El Clásico on the horizon.