Real Madrid’s 3-1 win over Villarreal kept them top of La Liga going into the international break, helped by Barcelona’s shock loss to Sevilla.
Yet the focus has shifted to Jude Bellingham after coach Xabi Alonso benched him in the last two matches.
[Mundo Deportivo reports] Alonso has no wish to drop Bellingham, insisting fitness issues are the only reason behind the decision. His main goal during the break is to restore the midfielder’s form and fitness.
Bellingham, who had shoulder surgery last July, is staying at Valdebebas after missing England duty under Thomas Tuchel to focus on recovery.
Alonso and his staff have created a tailored training plan to help Bellingham return to full fitness before the Clasico on October 26 at the Bernabeu.
The Real Madrid boss views Bellingham as key to his midfield setup — not in last season’s attacking role, but in a deeper, more balanced position.
For that, Alonso wants him fully fit and ready to start against Getafe before the Barcelona clash.