FAST DOWNLOAD
WHAT HAPPENED?
Los Blancos required their England international midfielder to step up and deliver end product during his debut campaign at Santiago Bernabeu, with Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema having departed for the Saudi Pro League – leaving an obvious void to be filled in the goal-getting department.
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GettyTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Bellingham stepped up, registering 23 efforts across all competitions as Real captured La Liga and Champions League titles. That return put him in Ballon d’Or contention, but the 21-year-old has failed to find the target through 10 appearances this season.
WHAT ANCELOTTI SAID
Carlo Ancelotti has no concerns when it comes to Bellingham, as he is now playing deeper following the arrival of French World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe. The Blancos’ boss told reporters when asked about a lack of output from his No.5: “He’s doing very well, he’s progressing, he’s had problems with his ankle and shoulder, but his condition is good. He is contributing with work, which is very important for us. Last year it was crucial that he scored goals because we had lost an important striker like Benzema. We don’t have that problem this year because we have a player who can score 45 goals.”
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GettyDID YOU KNOW?
‘Galactico’ addition Mbappe has spoken of his desire to reach 50 goals in 2024-25, and already has eight to his name. Ancelotti added on when Real can expect to see the best version of the former Paris Saint-Germain superstar: “We’re satisfied, because he’s scored goals. He’s important for the team, against Dortmund he was very present for both goals. We’re in no hurry, neither me, nor the squad, nor him. Obviously, he’s going to do better because he has all the qualities to do better.”
WHAT NEXT FOR REAL MADRID?
Real will be looking to Mbappe and Bellingham for inspiration when they return to La Liga action on Saturday. They are preparing to welcome arch-rivals Barcelona to the Spanish capital for another Clasico encounter.
