Real Madrid player in the foreground with a serious expression, and in the top right corner appears the face of a coach, also with a serious look.
FIRST TEAM

Xabi Alonso's plan for Bellingham: new role when he returns to the team

Real Madrid are already considering which spot Bellingham will have in the starting eleven

Xabi Alonso's Real Madrid is gradually taking shape. At the center of attention stands Arda Güler, who has established himself as a key piece in the Basque coach's system. As could be seen against Mallorca, the Turkish footballer has stepped up in a role that prepares everyone for Jude Bellingham's return.

Yesterday, in the victory over Mallorca, Güler was named "MVP" thanks to a stellar performance that could've ended with a brace. In addition, a few days ago he showed his vision with the great pass to Mbappé at Tartiere for the 0-1. His statistics are telling: he's the fourth player on the team with the most total shots (seven) and the second in shots on target (three).

Real Madrid players celebrate a goal during a match with the stadium in the background full of fans.
Jude Bellingham and Güler will be very important this year | RealMadridConfidencial

Arda Güler fills Bellingham's gap perfectly

Xabi Alonso has shaped Arda Güler as the brain of the team, moving him away from his usual position on the right wing. This decision responds to the need to fill the gap left by Bellingham, whose absence has been notable. However, the coach trusts the Englishman will return to his best form.

In fact, according to "Defensa Central," Xabi Alonso's idea is to place Bellingham in that position that made him shine so much. He wants the Englishman to be something similar to the player who amazed everyone in the 23/24 season with his goals arriving from behind. In short, his goal is to recover the most prolific version of the Briton.

Güler moves forward while Bellingham recovers

The Club World Cup was a showcase for Güler, who started in five of the six matches, showing he can handle the pressure. His physical development, with 17.6 lbs. (8 kg) more muscle mass, and his work with a personal trainer have been key to this leap. When Bellingham returns, the competition for the attacking midfielder spot will be fierce, especially with Franco Mastantuono's arrival.

A soccer referee talks with a Real Madrid player during a match; both appear focused on the situation in the game.
Arda Güler chatting with Sánchez Martínez during the match against Mallorca | Real Madrid Confidencial

Meanwhile, Jude Bellingham continues preparing to return with the rest of his teammates. He still has time and work ahead, but the Englishman is full of desire. In fact, Real Madrid have already advised him to take it easy, since they don't want to take risks with a return that could cause another injury.

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