Real Madrid News
Gary Lineker tips Jude Bellingham to win Ballon d’Or in five years
The Ballon d’Or ceremony is in full swing, with Lionel Messi set to battle it out with Erling Haaland for the prestigious trophy.
However, for Real Madrid fans, the biggest highlight of the event so far has been Jude Bellingham, who was recently crowned the Kopa Trophy for being the best talent in the world.
Gary Lineker backs Bellingham to win Ballon d’Or
While Bellingham might not be in consideration to win the Ballon d’Or title this year, Gary Lineker has backed the Englishman to win the coveted trophy in five years.
“Who wins the Ballon d’Or in 5 years? Probably Jude Bellingham,” Lineker said (h/t Madrid Xtra) while interacting with the media during the Ballon d’Or ceremony.
Lineker’s comments came on the back of Bellingham’s excellent start to the season with Real Madrid, with the midfielder having scored 13 goals in 13 competitive matches so far, as Bellingham reacted coyly to hearing this news.
A memorable week for Bellingham
The comments from the former English striker also marked an exciting week for Bellingham, who, as mentioned earlier, was crowned the Kopa Trophy at the Ballon d’Or ceremony.
Not to mention, the former Borussia Dortmund starlet was ranked 18th in the extended Ballon d’Or list. He finished ahead of players such as Harry Kane, Lautaro Martinez and Antoine Griezmann.
Bellingham was also instrumental in helping Real Madrid secure a crucial 2-1 win over Barcelona at the weekend, which in turn, ensured that Los Blancos remain at the top of the table.
On top of that, the Englishman is currently the undisputed favourite to win the prestigious Golden Boy trophy, after missing out on the title for two successive years.
Real Madrid News
Mourinho considering starting 23-year-old Real Madrid ace against Villarreal – report
After impressing during the international break, Eduardo Camavinga has a major opportunity to establish himself in Real Madrid’s midfield rotation.
Indeed, according to Defensa Central, Jose Mourinho is considering starting the Frenchman against Villarreal, with injuries and doubts over several players limiting his options.
Real Madrid cannot afford to drop points against Villarreal if they want to remain in the title race. However, Mourinho has issues to deal with in the squad, which could lead him to turn to Camavinga for a crucial role.
Camavinga could replace Tchouameni in midfield
The 23-year-old star could line up as the defensive midfielder in the double pivot, with Bernardo Silva or Arda Guler alongside him, and will be tasked with providing balance in midfield.
Real Madrid face Villarreal with several problems in central defence. Ibrahima Konate is expected to be a late call, leading Mourinho to consider moving Aurelien Tchouameni into defence alongside Antonio Rudiger.
Meanwhile, Federico Valverde could also struggle to be ready after the ankle injury he sustained in the derby before the international break.
The Uruguayan has continued to work individually away from the group and might return to group training tomorrow. Even then, his readiness to start remains in question.
That would leave a place open in midfield, with Camavinga in line to fill in.
Camavinga impressed during the international break
Camavinga has started only one match this season, the defeat against Real Betis.
Despite his limited opportunities, Mourinho is keen to bring the Frenchman back into the fold after he impressed for France during the international break.
Zinedine Zidane called the Real Madrid star up for his first France squad, and the midfielder performed well during the break.
That has given Mourinho and Real Madrid reason to be optimistic about using him against Villarreal, with the hope that he can move closer to the level he showed after first arriving at the club.
Therefore, the Villarreal match could represent an important test for Camavinga and a chance for the Frenchman to show that he can provide the balance Real Madrid need in midfield.
