Real Madrid News
Jude Bellingham credits Ancelotti and Real Madrid teammates for recent success
Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham has said that he is enjoying the freedom he has received under Carlo Ancelotti, adding that he is really liking his new role at the moment.
Bellingham exhibited a masterful display of his football prowess this Tuesday when England took on Scotland in an international friendly.
The former Borussia Dortmund midfielder seamlessly orchestrated a show of his skills, making invaluable contributions to propel England to a resounding 3-1 triumph.
During the game, the 20-year-old graced the field with his impeccable playmaking abilities, providing a scintillating assist while also scoring a goal.
In the aftermath of the contest, Bellingham spoke at length about his new role as the team’s number 10, crediting the success to his Madrid teammates and Ancelotti.
“It is a role with a lot of freedom,” he was quoted as saying by SPORT. “My fantastic teammates and my coach at Real Madrid, they have given me this freedom.
“I know that in the end, it will depend on the system we play, because there are many teammates to accommodate, and the team is always the priority, but I have really liked playing in this position,” he added.
What’s the new role?
On Saturday, against Ukraine, the midfielder was deployed wide towards the touchline but all that changed against Scotland. This time, he found himself strategically repositioned to occupy a central role behind Harry Kane.
It’s a similar role that Bellingham plays at Real Madrid under Ancelotti, and this transition has already reaped rewards, with the 20-year-old scoring five goals in a mere four outings.
Madrid benefitting a big time
Karim Benzema’s departure has left a huge void at Real Madrid and while they do have Joselu to cover the position for the rest of the season, Bellingham has stepped up at big time, to say the least.
Interestingly, Ancelotti strategically altered Bellingham’s role within the team, positioning him higher up the field in a midfield diamond formation reminiscent of a classic number 10.
This tactical adjustment for Real Madrid, a move intended to compensate for the absence of a dependable goal-scorer, is working exceptionally for Real Madrid.
Journalist Arancha Rodriguez has claimed that Real Madrid forward Brahim Diaz played the Las Palmas game with a dislocation in his right shoulder, which actually happened last Sunday during the derby match against Atletico Madrid.
The news was later confirmed by the forward’s father, Sufiel Abdekalder, who told The Athletic, “Yes [he had dislocated shoulder], but we didn’t want it to be public. Our 100% focus was on the match.”
The former AC Milan loanee started his first game of the season and it was his goal that marked the beginning of Real Madrid’s 2-0 win over Las Palmas.
The 24-year-old was later replaced in the 57th minute but by then, the Los Blancos had already established a two-goal lead.
“I’m so proud, you can’t describe the feeling, it’s something unique. I can only thank the fans because I’ve had an incredible welcome. I’m very happy to be here and play for this badge,” the forward said after the game.
Special outing for Diaz
The Las Palmas game was the first time that Diaz started a game for Real Madrid.
The versatile attacking midfielder found himself among the five alterations made by Carlo Ancelotti following the disheartening derby performance against Atletico Madrid last Sunday, a game where Diaz was only introduced in the 70th minute.
The 24-year-old seized the opportunity with both hands, scoring the opening goal in what was a comfortable outing for the team.
Given the competition at hand, Diaz has been forced to settle for substitute appearances this season but fans have witnessed his unwavering dedication during this time.
The love he received from the Madrid supporters was shown when he was substituted during the second half.
While it is unlikely that his run in the first-team will continue, especially since Vinicius Jr. has now returned, the 24-year-old must continue to keep his head on the ground and work towards achieving the common goal this season.
