Mansion Sports - Real Madrid will be without one of their most influential players in the opening months of the 2025–26 season. 

English midfielder Jude Bellingham has officially undergone surgery to address a long-standing shoulder injury, a move that signals a significant early challenge for newly appointed head coach Xabi Alonso.

A Lingering Injury Finally Addressed

Bellingham first sustained the shoulder injury in November 2023 during a goalless draw against Rayo Vallecano in La Liga. 

At the time, surgery was recommended; however, the then 20-year-old chose to postpone the operation to remain available for his debut season with Real Madrid.

That decision proved pivotal. Despite the physical discomfort, Bellingham played a critical role in helping Los Blancos secure both the La Liga and UEFA Champions League titles in the 2023–24 campaign. 

Following the season’s conclusion, he once again deferred surgery in order to represent England at UEFA Euro 2024, where the Three Lions reached the final.

Surgery Confirmed After Club World Cup Commitments

Throughout the congested schedule, including Real Madrid’s participation in the FIFA Club World Cup, Bellingham continued to play while wearing a protective shoulder brace. 

However, with the conclusion of international and club commitments, the midfielder has now taken the definitive step of undergoing surgery to permanently resolve the issue.

According to Spanish outlet MARCA, Bellingham’s recovery is expected to take between 10 and 12 weeks. Although Real Madrid has yet to issue an official return date, it is certain that the 21-year-old will miss the start of the upcoming season.

Key Fixtures to Be Missed During Recovery

Should his recovery extend to the full 12-week projection, Bellingham would not return until early October. 

This means he is expected to miss up to eight La Liga fixtures, including crucial encounters against Osasuna, Mallorca, Real Sociedad, and city rivals Atlético Madrid. Additionally, he will be absent from the opening stages of the UEFA Champions League.

Real Madrid is reportedly targeting their match against Villarreal on Sunday, October 5, as an ideal return date for the midfielder. 

However, if Bellingham recovers ahead of schedule, there is a possibility he could make his comeback during the high-stakes Madrid Derby against Atlético, scheduled for September 28.

Potential Replacements in Midfield

While no single player can fully replicate Bellingham’s unique combination of technical ability, vision, and intensity, Real Madrid does possess several options to fill the creative void in the number 10 role.

Franco Mastantuono, the 17-year-old Argentine playmaker, is believed to be a leading candidate should Alonso opt for a traditional attacking midfielder. 

Mastantuono is known for his sharp vision, creative instincts, and his powerful left foot, which poses a threat from both set pieces and long-range efforts.

Another option is Turkish midfielder Arda Güler, although he has predominantly been deployed alongside Federico Valverde in a deeper midfield role. 

If Alonso chooses to advance Güler’s position on the pitch, his vacated role could be filled by Eduardo Camavinga, whose versatility and physical prowess make him a strong candidate to stabilize the midfield.

Ultimately, the decision lies with Xabi Alonso, who now faces his first major test as manager of Real Madrid. 

How he manages Bellingham’s absence could have a profound impact on the club’s momentum at the start of the new season.