Real Madrid News
Real Madrid midfield superstar turned to Ancelotti for help after difficult phase
The 2025/26 season was a difficult one for Real Madrid superstar Jude Bellingham, who was unable to find his best form both under Xabi Alonso and Alvaro Arbeloa.
Even with the England national team, where expectations remained sky-high, the midfielder struggled to rediscover the level that had made him one of the world’s most influential players during his first couple of years in Spain.
Bellingham seeks out Ancelotti for help
Now, according to AS, Bellingham turned to someone he trusted above all others: Carlo Ancelotti, in search of answers after a turbulent period.
The Italian manager had overseen the finest football of Bellingham’s career, and the England star wanted to hear his advice again. Above all, he sought guidance on how to navigate his complicated relationship with England boss Thomas Tuchel.
Bellingham’s conversation with Ancelotti came at a moment when doubts were beginning to emerge around his role with the national team.
Tuchel’s uncompromising approach had already become clear ahead of the World Cup, with players such as Phil Foden, Cole Palmer and Trent Alexander-Arnold paying the price after being left out of the squad.
The Real Madrid midfielder wanted perspective from a coach who understood both elite football and the demands of managing dressing rooms. Ancelotti’s experience and calm approach proved invaluable.
A difficult season
Like much of Real Madrid, Bellingham endured a frustrating campaign. Shoulder surgery and muscular problems interrupted his momentum, while two managerial changes only added to the instability around him.
He struggled to find his place and, at times, looked far from the dominant force he had been during his first season in Spain.
Yet signs of recovery appeared towards the end of the campaign. Gradually, the midfielder began to resemble the player who had taken La Liga by storm.
Back to his best with England
Bellingham’s first World Cup appearance with England offered further evidence that he has rediscovered himself. While his goal attracted headlines, his overall influence on the game stood out even more.
He once again looked like the heartbeat of the side, dictating play and driving England forward. His performances have silenced some of the doubts that had emerged, including questions raised by Tuchel himself regarding his role and importance.
Central to Mourinho’s Real Madrid
Those close to Real Madrid are delighted by the resurgence. Inside Valdebebas, Bellingham is viewed as one of the pillars of Jose Mourinho’s new project and remains untouchable within the club’s plans.
There is a strong belief that much of the Portuguese manager’s success will depend on getting the very best from the England international.
After months of uncertainty, Bellingham appears to have found his way back. And according to those around him, a crucial phone call to Carlo Ancelotti helped set him on that path.
One of the main objectives for Real Madrid this summer was to bring in a new central midfielder capable of controlling the tempo and dictating the play from the middle.
A move for Rodri was in the works before the Spain captain decided to sign for FC Barcelona. The Merengues assessed several other options, but ended up not signing any player, with Jose Mourinho deciding to use Bernardo Silva in the double pivot.
One of the midfielders that Real Madrid were looking at as an option was Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace.
The England international has been on the club’s radar for a while now, but the Premier League club never opened the door for a summer departure.
Wharton could be on the market in 2027
However, now, according to The Guardian (h/t Bernabeu Digital), That stance could change next year, as that Palace would be prepared to consider selling Wharton during the next summer transfer window.
As mentioned already, Real Madrid have closely followed Wharton’s situation throughout the summer, although the club ultimately decided against making any further additions to their midfield.
Manchester City and Chelsea also showed serious interest in signing the England international during the summer. However, Crystal Palace were unwilling to sell, effectively ruling out a move for the midfielder.
But it appears that they could open the doors for Wharton to leave in the summer of 2027, potentially paving the way for Real Madrid to make a move.
Real Madrid continue to monitor Wharton
Real Madrid are expected to keep a close eye on Wharton’s progress ahead of the 2027 market. Should they decide they need another high-quality midfielder, the 22-year-old could once again emerge as a candidate.
Manchester City may be less likely to return for Wharton after strengthening their midfield significantly this summer.
Chelsea, however, could remain a potential competitor after failing to add a player in the position during the latest window.
For now, Wharton will remain at Crystal Palace, but the club’s willingness to consider a sale next summer means the midfielder could become a realistic option for Real Madrid in 2027.
