Actual Madrid supervisor Carlo Ancelotti performed down issues over the health of Jude Bellingham forward of this week’s decisive Champions League tie in opposition to Atletico Madrid.
Bellingham missed the primary leg of the ‘Euro derby’ by way of suspension and had been pressured to take a seat out two home video games as a consequence of additional disciplinary points earlier than making his belated return in opposition to Rayo Vallecano on Sunday.
The England worldwide was thrust straight again into the beginning XI and helped his facet earn a 2-1 win, however was pressured off within the 86th minute after receiving medical remedy on the pitch.
Ancelotti was requested in regards to the well being of his star midfielder, significantly forward of Wednesday’s Madrid derby, and shortly dismissed any issues. “It was a blow,” the Italian shrugged, failing to even elevate an eyebrow, “nothing critical.”
Bellingham wasn’t Madrid’s solely damage concern. Thibaut Courtois was a stunning omission from the matchday squad after complaining a couple of knee drawback. As soon as once more, Ancelotti allayed fears in regards to the availability of his first-choice goalkeeper. “Courtois will get better shortly for Wednesday,” he revealed.
Federico Valverde’s health has been managed cautiously. The sturdy Uruguayan was solely known as upon for the ultimate quarter of Sunday’s victory – as Ancelotti unashamedly admitted: “Once I need to defend, I take off the forwards, it is not an issue for me.” – forward of Wednesday’s second leg in opposition to Atletico.
Valverde was in good type throughout final week’s tie on the Bernabeu, tirelessly patrolling all the proper flank regardless of affected by discomfort. When requested about his health this week, the Uruguayan insisted: “I am blissful, delighted. Mentally I am calm with what we’re doing bodily to get better my physique.”
Actual boast a slender 2-1 benefit heading to Atletico’s Metropolitano Stadium in midweek. Ancelotti promised a “full throttle” efficiency in his facet’s continued bid to defend their continental crown.
