On Friday, it was confirmed that Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham had not been included in England’s squad for their upcoming international matches against Wales and Latvia. The 22-year-old was widely expected to be included having returned earlier than planned from shoulder surgery, but instead, he will not return home.
Bellingham was expected to be sidelined until later this month after undergoing an operation in August, but he made his return to action a few weeks ago during Real Madrid’s match against Espanyol. He started in the Madrid derby last weekend, but during the encounter at the RiyadhAir Metropolitano, it was rather apparent that he is still not yet match fit.
And because of it, it has been reported by Marca that Bellingham asked not to be included in Thomas Tuchel’s squad. The former Chelsea and Bayern Munich head coach had planned to count on the Real Madrid superstar, but after talks, it was decided that he would remain the Spanish capital.
Bellingham to undergo “mini pre-season” over next 2 weeks
Bellingham has recognised that he is not at 100%, which is why he wanted the opportunity to continue getting back to his best during these next two weeks. In the England camp, they understand his decision and have given the green light, aware that the Real Madrid man has come from a complicated period, and that forcing him to play for the national team at this time of the year could be “counter-productive”.
It means that Bellingham will stay with Real Madrid during the international break, which will begin for Los Blancos’ players after Saturday’s match against Villarreal. According to the report, the plan is for the midfielder to undergo a “mini-preseason” over the next week or so, as he will follow a specific work plan at Valdebebas, mapped out by Xabi Alonso’s coaching staff.
