Carlo Ancelotti has provided an update on Jude Bellingham’s fitness following his substitution during Real Madrid’s 3-0 victory over Girona. After a midweek defeat to Athletic Bilbao, Madrid returned to winning, with Bellingham scoring his fifth goal in as many games, alongside goals from Arda Güler and Kylian Mbappé.

However, Bellingham raised concerns when he requested to be substituted in the second half due to a potential muscle injury, just ahead of their crucial Champions League clash with Atalanta. Ancelotti alleviated fears, stating, “[Bellingham’s] fine, available. We had (Ferland) Mendy’s muscle injury, but the rest are knocks, nothing more.”

Bellingham’s return to form is crucial for Ancelotti, especially as Barcelona currently leads La Liga and Mbappé’s adaptation to life at the Bernabéu has been challenging. In the match against Girona, Bellingham broke the deadlock with a powerful shot past former Tottenham goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga, capping off a dominant first-half performance. He created two big chances, made 29 passes, completed all his dribbles, won both duels and made three clearances.

Although Bellingham has yet to score outside of La Liga this season, he is regaining his form after a stellar debut campaign at Real Madrid, where he helped the team secure both the Champions League and La Liga titles. Last season, he netted 19 goals in 28 La Liga appearances and added four goals in the Champions League, along with 13 assists, totaling 36 contributions in 42 matches.

Real Madrid sits 24th in the Champions League table after two wins and three defeats from their first five games. They will look to improve their standing in the upcoming match against fifth-placed Atalanta.