Real Madrid’s Carlo Ancelotti Gives Update on Star Midfielder’s Shoulder Injury
Carlo Ancelotti has downplayed concerns over Jude Bellingham’s ongoing shoulder issue, stating that the midfielder will wear protective strapping as a precautionary measure for the team’s upcoming match against Alavés. Bellingham had dislocated his left shoulder last year but opted for a conservative approach instead of undergoing surgery. He wore protective gear for most of last season but had been playing without it until a recent awkward fall during the 4-1 win over Espanyol.
“It’s the same shoulder as last year,” Ancelotti said in a news conference. “The problem he had the other day hasn’t affected him. He’ll wear protection, just to be safe, but he’s available, he’ll play.” Ancelotti refused to reveal how many changes he would make to the lineup for the Alavés game, after resting several key players, including Vinícius Júnior, Antonio Rüdiger, and Ferland Mendy, against Espanyol.
The Italian coach emphasized the importance of rotating players, especially with a crucial derby match against Atlético Madrid looming this weekend. Ancelotti also praised the performance of teenage forward Endrick, who has already made an impact in both LaLiga and the Champions League. “He knows to be patient, he understands,” Ancelotti said. “Every day he trains with the best forwards in the world, he understands his role perfectly… He’s very professional, very mature. He’ll get his minutes when we need him.”
Additionally, Ancelotti confirmed that Ferland Mendy has signed a new contract with the club, extending his stay beyond next summer. “He’s signed a new contract, he’s doing well,” Ancelotti said. “His defensive level is very high… We have a left winger [Vinícius] who’s very strong, so we don’t ask a lot of him in attack, but he could do it.”
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