Real Madrid given Bellingham suspension update

The Champions League derby between Madrid and Atlético showcased two contrasting phases for Los Blancos in midfield. During the first hour, with Camavinga and Tchouaméni operating as a double pivot, Madrid struggled to generate opportunities, producing little in attack.

However, from the 60th minute onward, following Modrić’s introduction in place of Camavinga, the game took on a different complexion—greater control, improved transitions, and better offensive rhythm—despite an underwhelming performance from the forwards, particularly Mbappé and Vinícius.

Bellingham back after red card suspension

Yet, one theme persisted throughout the match, as it has in previous encounters: without Bellingham and with Brahim attempting to fill his role, Madrid functioned more as a 4-2-4 than a 4-2-3-1 (or even a 4-3-3, as the practical differences are minimal).

Playing with four forwards and only two midfielders inevitably leads to losing control of the game, surrendering initiative, and, in many instances, defending poorly. That imbalance was momentarily masked by Brahim’s brilliance in setting up the 2-1 goal, but with Bellingham’s return, the equation changes entirely.

Bellingham is both a midfielder and a forward. Operating from attacking midfield, he ranks as Madrid’s fifth-most prolific passer this season (1,731 completed passes) and, at the same time, is the team’s third-highest contributor to goals (22), tied with Rodrygo and trailing only Vinícius and Mbappé. His absence due to suspension—missing three matches, two in La Liga following his infamous “f*** off” incident that referee Munuera Montero interpreted as “f*** you,” and another in the Champions League due to yellow card accumulation—did not derail Madrid’s results (two wins and one loss). However, his absence was particularly felt against Betis in Sevilla and against Atleti, who controlled large portions of the game at the Bernabéu.

This Sunday, Bellingham finally returns against Rayo Vallecano—a much-needed presence to restore balance to Ancelotti’s side, acting as the crucial link between midfield and attack.

Bellingham is Madrid’s everything in midfield

Bellingham’s return means Madrid regains its top playmaker (11 assists), the midfielder who creates the most big chances against organized defenses (64), and, by far, the most prolific dribbler among midfielders (54).

His attacking impact doesn’t come at the expense of defensive contributions—quite the opposite. He leads all Madrid midfielders in duels contested (409) and won (231), matches Camavinga in tackles made (66), and is also the most successful tackler (43), while recovering possession 119 times.

A complete midfielder with shades of Zidane and echoes of the great Kaká—whom Ancelotti himself has compared him to—Bellingham is the key to reestablishing fluidity in Madrid’s 4-2-3-1. His presence prevents the forwards from becoming isolated, as was the case against Atleti before Modrić’s entrance, while also ensuring defensive solidity in the 4-4-2 structure. Beyond his recovery work, he is instrumental in launching counterattacks, having delivered 668 passes into the final third, including his 11 goal assists.

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With Bellingham back, Madrid regains not just a player, but a system.

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