Bellingham Returns, Mbappe Ready as Real Madrid Eye Champions League Glory
Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso has included Jude Bellingham in his squad for the first time this season following the England international’s shoulder surgery in July. Bellingham, who had been sidelined after dislocating his shoulder in 2023, returned ahead of schedule alongside Eduardo Camavinga, though both may not feature in Tuesday’s opening match at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Kylian Mbappe, 26, who left Paris Saint-Germain last summer to join the 15-time European champions, is also part of the squad. His former club PSG lifted the Champions League trophy for the first time last season, but Alonso insists the French striker is focused on the future rather than dwelling on past results.
“He’s not anxious. We all feel this is a project that’s just starting,” Alonso told reporters. “One of our objectives is to win the Champions League, hopefully sooner rather than later. Kylian is part of the path to getting there, but he’s not anxious. Today we talked about what the Champions League means in the near future, not May.”
Mbappe previously faced PSG at the Club World Cup in the summer, when Madrid were defeated 4-0 in the semi-finals. Alonso noted that the striker was not at full fitness at the tournament due to a stomach bug, but has since hit top form, scoring four goals in as many La Liga games this season.
“Gastroenteritis meant it was Kylian ‘lite’ at the Club World Cup,” Alonso said. “Without a doubt, he’s a leader—because of his personality, experience, and influence on the others. He’s one of them.”
Real Madrid have won six of the last 12 Champions League titles, but Alonso said the club’s illustrious history does not add pressure.
“It’s a fact, unquestionable, an honour, a motivation, and a responsibility you live with and enjoy. It’s a privilege,” he added.
Meanwhile, Marseille coach Roberto De Zerbi remains undeterred by Madrid’s star-studded squad. “It doesn’t change our plan for tomorrow,” he said. “I don’t know if they will play or not. They are two champions, and whoever is on the pitch is dangerous. We have to play very well to get a result, with respect but also knowing what we have to do. Real Madrid is a huge club, but our idea is to play a great game.”
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