“Let's see in the next few days” - Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti gives fitness update on Jude Bellingham and Aurelien Tchouameni
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has provided a fitness update on Jude Bellingham and Aurelien Tchouameni ahead of their match against Real Sociedad. He's confirmed that the duo will miss the La Liga clash at the Anoeta Stadium on Saturday, September 14.
Bellingham started in Los Blancos' UEFA Super Cup win over Atalanta on August 14. However, he's been out of action since, missing their first four La Liga games. Meanwhile, Tchouameni has featured in all of their games so far but had to withdraw from France's Nations League camp this month due to injury.
In a pre-match press conference, Carlo Ancelotti provided an update on the duo, saying (via Mario Cortegana):
"Tchouaméni and Bellingham? I don't think they will play tomorrow, it's a bit early. They only did a small part of the session with the group yesterday. Let's see in the next few days if they are available for Tuesday’."
Bellingham and Tchouameni's absence is a big loss for Real Madrid, especially considering the other absentees in midfield. Eduardo Camavinga and Dani Ceballos are also out injured. Arda Guler also picked up a knock on international duty but should be available for Saturday's clash.
Hence, Ancelotti could play a midfield of Luka Modric, Federico Valverde, and Brahim Diaz against Real Sociedad.
Carlo Ancelotti on Real Madrid's midfield situation and Arda Guler
Real Madrid currently only have Luka Modric and Federico Valverde as the two senior fit central midfielders. They are likely to start in a three-man midfield against Real Sociedad with injuries to other midfielders. When asked about the third pick, Carlo Ancelotti said (via Football Espana):
“Good question. It’s the doubt I have. I can play with three midfielders or I can change the system.”
When asked particularly if Arda Guler can play in a central midfield role and if not, what he needs to do to get there, Ancelotti said:
“Defending and attacking… It is not that complicated. They must be well positioned and move between the lines, off for the ball and be an option, provide the pass for the forwards. In defence, they have to shut off the space on the inside. The central midfielder’s job in a 4-3-3 is much more intense than that of a winger.”
Guler, 19, joined Real Madrid from Fenerbahce last summer and has registered six goals in 16 appearances. He's mainly operated as an attacking midfielder for Los Blancos so far.