Carlo Ancelotti, Real Madrid’s renowned manager, addressed concerns relating to Jude Bellingham’s shoulder injury during a recent press conference. Despite Bellingham’s history of a dislocated left shoulder sustained in late 2023, Ancelotti reassured fans that the midfielder’s current condition is manageable. Rather than opting for surgical intervention, the young talent had chosen a conservative path, frequently employing specially designed protective strapping last season. Although he had initially played without it this season, a recent mishap in Real Madrid’s strong victory over Espanyol raised alarms. The player fell awkwardly and appeared to need immediate treatment. However, Ancelotti confirmed that this occurrence does not signal a severe setback for Bellingham, as he will return to wearing protective gear for the upcoming match against Alavés, emphasizing, “The problem he had the other day hasn’t affected him. He’ll wear protection, just to be safe, but he’s available, he’ll play.”
In the lead-up to the match against Alavés, Ancelotti remains coy about the lineup changes he plans to implement. With the imminent derby against Atlético Madrid looming large on the horizon, it’s crucial that the squad’s fitness is carefully managed. Notably, the coach chose to rest key players such as Vinícius Júnior, who ultimately made a positive impact off the bench, along with Antonio Rüdiger and Ferland Mendy in the prior match. This strategic rotation is indicative of Ancelotti’s long-term vision as he acknowledged the pressing need to manage player fatigue and maintain optimal performance levels. When questioned about Kylian Mbappé’s potential absence from the starting eleven, Ancelotti chose to remain non-committal, stating, “We’ll evaluate that tomorrow, I won’t give the team today,” revealing his pragmatic decision-making approach.
While Bellingham’s situation dominated discussions, Ancelotti also lauded the contributions of emerging talents like Endrick. The teenage forward’s performances have already garnered attention, with goals in both LaLiga and the Champions League. Ancelotti pointed out Endrick’s composure and maturity, saying, “He knows to be patient, he understands. Every day he trains with the best forwards in the world.” This insight not only showcases a nurturing aspect of Ancelotti’s management style but also highlights the importance of integrating young players into a star-studded lineup without overwhelming them.
Furthermore, the coach confirmed that Mendy, whom he regards as perhaps the best defensive left-back in the globe, has signed a contract extension—an essential move for Madrid as they aim to solidify their defensive lineup. Ancelotti’s comments, “He’s signed a new contract, he’s doing well,” underline the stability and cohesion that Mendy brings to the team.
As Real Madrid prepares for the challenge against Alavés before engaging in a high-stakes derby, Ancelotti must juggle player welfare with competitive ambition. His ability to rotate the squad judiciously while cultivating new talent will be pivotal in grounding Madrid’s aspirations for the remainder of the season. With injuries to handle and key players in need of rest, Ancelotti’s decisions in the coming days will certainly define the club’s trajectory, making each match more than just a game—it’s an exercise in management of team dynamics and resilience.
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