Real Madrid set to miss key attacker after suffering injury in his right leg

Jude Bellingham's injury has dealt Real Madrid a serious blow before of their season-opening home match. Bellingham is anticipated to be absent from Sunday, August 25's game against Real Valladolid. As Madrid looks to win their first game of the new season, Bellingham is anticipated to miss the match at the Santiago Bernabeu. The first match ended in a 1-1 draw between the defending champions and RCD Mallorca.

The midfield player's injury to his right leg's plantar thin muscle was identified by Real Madrid in a statement that was made public on Friday, August 23. Although Los Blancos has not yet assessed the severity of the injury, the England midfielder is expected to return following the September international break, according to Spanish media. 

The statement read, "Following tests carried out today on our player Jude Bellingham by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he has been diagnosed with an injury to the plantar thin muscle of his right leg. Pending evaluation.”

“He is being assessed” : Jude Bellingham

Jude Bellingham was unable to complete the training session on Friday, August 23, and Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti disclosed this information in the pre-match press conference earlier today. The former Bayern Munich manager said, "Bellingham had a blow, he is being assessed." 

Now that the England midfielder is anticipated to be sidelined, Brahim Diaz or Arda Guler will be expected to assume his place in the squad. Bellingham had an incredible first season with Los Blancos, helping them win both the La Liga and the Champions League. Bellingham netted 19 goals across 28 La Liga games throughout the course of the previous season. 

Before going on to represent England in the Euro 2024 competition, he would score four goals during the UEFA Champions League campaign. Kylian Mbappe will also make his home debut in Real Madrid colors during the Real Valladolid match. The Frenchman would be hoping to open his La Liga account sooner rather than later.