“It's not a surprise he doesn't score” - Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti gives honest verdict on Jude Bellingham amid goal drought criticism
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has responded to criticism over Jude Bellingham's inability to find the net. When quizzed about the same, the Italian coach defended his player, claiming that the England international performs other significant functions.
It's surprising that the former Borussia Dortmund midfielder has yet to find the net this campaign after having made nine appearances across competitions. Last campaign, Bellingham played 42 matches across competitions, bagging 23 goals and 13 assists.
Speaking about the 21-year-old's contributions in front of goal, Ancelotti said (via @MadridXtra):
"Bellingham zero goals so far? I'm very satisfied with him and what he's doing. He helps us a lot, he works very hard on the pitch. It's not a surprise he doesn't score goals. It was a surpise what he did last season. Goals are not important, it's more important what he's doing than goals."
Some would say that Kylian Mbappe's arrival at the Santiago Bernabeu ahead of the start of the season has reduced Bellingham's goalscoring burden. Other attackers like Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo also contribute massively.
That being said, Bellingham is a key figure at Real Madrid, having started every single La Liga and Champions League tie when fit. From his appearances this campaign, the Englishman has bagged two assists.
Bellingham joined Los Blancos from Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2023 for a reported fee of €113 million. He will be expected to start for Carlo Ancelotti in his club's next match against the aforementioned German side in the Champions League on Tuesday (October 22).
Tony Cascarino offers opinion on Jude Bellingham convincing Liverpool star to join Real Madrid
Numerous reports have linked Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold with a move to Real Madrid. The defender could be on the move in January, having entered the final year of his deal at Anfield.
A factor that could influence the Reds man's decision is close friend and England teammate Jude Bellingham. Speaking about the duo's relationship affecting this move, Cascarino told talkSPORT (via Rousing the Kop):
"Well, you know, Jude Bellingham and him are meant to be good friends, aren’t they? I mean, Bellingham will probably have told him a number of things about Real Madrid, about what they do, the development and the ideas and what it’s like to play for such a huge club in world football."
The Spanish giants are seemingly looking for a new long-term replacement for the ageing Dani Carvajal. Moreover, the veteran defender is out for a prolonged period due to injury this campaign, which has increased the need for a player in this position.