Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham has suffered a calf injury during a training session, just over two weeks ahead of England’s Nations League campaign. The 21-year-old was unable to complete a club session on Friday, prompting concerns over his availability for upcoming fixtures. BBC Sport has sought information from Real regarding the expected duration of Bellingham’s absence.
Reports from Spain indicate that the midfielder may be sidelined until late September, potentially making him unavailable for England’s first two matches under interim manager Lee Carsley. The England team is set to face the Republic of Ireland on 7 September and Finland on 10 September in the Nations League.
Real Madrid released a statement confirming that Bellingham underwent medical tests on Friday for the issue with his right calf, and that his progress will be closely monitored. Additionally, Bellingham expressed his frustration about missing games but remained optimistic, emphasizing that he will support the team until he can return at his best.
Writing on his social media accounts, Bellingham added: “Nothing I hate more than missing games but trying to see the positive side and maybe my body is telling me it needs a bit more rest after a busy year.
“I’m very frustrated but I’ll be supporting the lads like a fan until I can re-join them again in my best and strongest form.”
Carsley, who assumed the role of interim manager after Gareth Southgate’s resignation post Euro 2024, faces the challenge of dealing with Bellingham’s absence. Despite being in the early stages of his career at Real Madrid, Bellingham had a remarkable debut season, scoring 23 goals in 42 appearances and contributing to the club’s La Liga and Champions League victories.
The midfielder has been actively involved in the team’s recent fixtures, featuring in the 1-1 La Liga draw against Mallorca and the Super Cup triumph against Atalanta. Carsley is expected to announce the squad for the Nations League matches on 29 August, with the support of assistant manager Ashley Cole, former England left-back, and a backroom team including former England centre-back Joleon Lescott and the Football Association’s head of coaching Tim Dittmer.
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