Carlo Ancelotti says he is not particularly worried about the possible recurrence of Jude Bellingham’s shoulder injury during Victory of Real Madrid against Espanyol by 4-1 on Saturday night.
Los Blancos have closed the gap on La Liga leaders Barcelona, who play on Sunday, to a point thanks to strikes from Dani Carvajal, Rodrygo, Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappe, who fell behind earlier in the the second half after Thibaut Courtois’ own goal.
Bellingham started a second game in a row after missing four league games and the September international break earlier in the campaign with a muscle problem, but the 21-year-old was seen struggling with his shoulder during the win.
However, he was able to play 83 minutes before being substituted and manager Ancelotti said he does not think the issue is too much of a concern.
He said: “Jude’s had his shoulder problem and it’s settled well. He was able to play the whole game without any problems. We’ll see how he does tomorrow, although it doesn’t look like anything particularly worrying.
“He’s always played with protection. He took it off a month ago because he was fine, but he’s had that problem again. He handled it really well tonight, he didn’t ask for the change, which he’s never had to do before. . I don’t think it’s a problem, although it must be taken care of, obviously.”
Bellingham hopes to be available midweek when Madrid continue their defense of the Liga title against Alavés ahead of a clash in the capital with Atlético de Madrid next weekend. They then return to Champions League action with a trip to Lille in early October.
Regarding the result, Ancelotti added: “We started well and reacted well after the 0-1. It was complete. We played better than in other games; with more rhythm and generating more opportunities. I’m happy.”
