Bellingham Puts Ancelotti in a Bind 5 Days Before the Big Copa del Rey Final

The current season for Jude Bellingham is being a real roller coaster of emotions. He started the season paying for the lack of sports planning at Real Madrid and was tasked with filling the void left by Toni Kroos. However, it soon became clear that this role was not suitable for him.

Much less when he fell to the wing, where he was directly lost by not being able to participate in the game. He had never been seen suffering so much on the field. It seemed that the goal-scoring Jude Bellingham from last season had completely vanished.

He Returned to His Position and Showed a Great Version

Against Athletic Club, Jude Bellingham once again found his best version at Real Madrid. Right in that role where he dazzled last season, being key in winning the League and the Champions. Ancelotti chose to modify his position on the field, placing him with more freedom in the attacking midfield, allowing him to move at will.

Placing him as a false '9' within the offensive trident was a wise decision. Bellingham created numerous chances and had active participation in the area, although he lacked some precision when finishing. In fact, the Englishman could have scored on several occasions, but Unai Simón's hands prevented the goals.

Additionally, he was the subject of a penalty that, incomprehensibly, was not called by the referee nor warned by the VAR. "It's the position that gave us an advantage last year. In the second half, he played like that and he was ready inside the area when we put in crosses", explained Carlo Ancelotti to the press.

What Will Ancelotti Do in the Copa del Rey?

With the Cup final on the horizon, Ancelotti will have to carefully analyze how to fit Bellingham when he has Mbappé, Vinícius, and Rodrygo. In the 4-4-2 formation, so characteristic of the Italian coach, the Englishman has his role well defined, but the presence of the three strikers will force important decisions. Leaving one on the bench is a possibility, although it is clear that it will not be an easy choice for the coach.

Next Saturday, if Mbappé finally arrives in time to play the Copa del Rey final—something that is yet to be confirmed—Ancelotti will face key decisions. What does seem unquestionable is that Bellingham offers his best version in the position he played against Athletic Club.