Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham has suffered a calf injury during training, just over two weeks before England’s Nations League campaign begins. The 21-year-old was unable to complete a club training session on Friday.
BBC Sport has reached out to Real Madrid to determine the expected duration of Bellingham’s absence. Spanish reports indicate he may be sidelined until late September, which would prevent him from participating in interim manager Lee Carsley’s first two matches in charge as England faces the Republic of Ireland on September 7 and Finland on September 10 in the Nations League.
In a statement, Real Madrid confirmed that Bellingham underwent medical tests on Friday regarding his right calf issue and that his “progress will be monitored.”
Expressing his frustration on social media, Bellingham said: “Nothing I hate more than missing games, but I’m trying to see the positive side. Maybe my body is telling me it needs a bit more rest after a busy year. I’m very frustrated but I’ll support the lads like a fan until I can re-join them again in my best and strongest form.”
Carsley, who was named interim manager following Gareth Southgate’s resignation after Euro 2024, is set to announce his squad for the Nations League fixtures on August 29. He will be assisted by former England left-back Ashley Cole during his interim tenure. Ex-England center-back Joleon Lescott and Tim Dittmer, head of coaching at the Football Association, will also be part of Carsley’s backroom team.
Bellingham enjoyed a stellar debut season at the Bernabeu, scoring 23 goals in 42 appearances as Madrid claimed both La Liga and the Champions League titles. He started in last weekend’s 1-1 La Liga draw against Mallorca, as well as in the Super Cup victory over Atalanta earlier this month.
Credit: BBC Sport
