Bellingham's back! Real Madrid star named in squad for Marseille clash

 

Jude Bellingham has been named in Real Madrid’s squad for their Champions League opener against Marseille at the Santiago Bernabéu. The news comes as something of a surprise after the England international underwent shoulder surgery following an injury sustained during the FIFA Club World Cup this summer. While head coach Xabi Alonso had recently admitted he was “optimistic” about Bellingham’s recovery, the midfielder was not expected to return this soon. Although he is unlikely to start on Tuesday, his presence in the squad provides a major boost for Los Blancos as they begin their European campaign.

Real Madrid also welcome back Eduardo Camavinga, who has not featured since April due to injury. The French midfielder’s return further strengthens Alonso’s options in midfield as the club chase another successful Champions League season. For Bellingham, the opportunity to be back on the pitch in front of the home fans is a morale lift, even if his minutes are carefully managed. His inclusion signals that his recovery has progressed well and that he may be eased back into action ahead of the packed autumn schedule. For Madrid, the timing could not be better as they balance domestic challenges with European ambitions.

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Marseille, meanwhile, face a difficult test as they return to the Champions League for the first time since the 2022–23 season. Now under Roberto De Zerbi, the French side will travel to Madrid without two of their key summer signings. Defender Nayef Aguerd and midfielder Hamad Junior Traoré have both been ruled out through injury after failing to train at La Commanderie this morning. Their absence leaves Marseille short-handed as they prepare for a high-pressure fixture at one of Europe’s most intimidating stadiums.

De Zerbi will address the media at the Bernabéu later this evening ahead of what will be his first Champions League match in charge of Marseille. Despite the injury setbacks, the French side will be eager to make a strong impression on their return to Europe’s elite competition. The match represents both a fresh challenge and an opportunity for Marseille to test themselves against one of the continent’s strongest teams. For Real Madrid, the game provides a platform to reintroduce stars like Bellingham and Camavinga into the fold while setting the tone for their European campaign. With both teams carrying different narratives into the clash, all eyes will be on how the night unfolds in Madrid.

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