Real Madrid's Bellingham Sidelined by Calf Injury

Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham sustained a calf injury during training, just over two weeks before England’s Nations League campaign begins. The 21-year-old left a club session early on Friday due to the issue. BBC Sport contacted Real Madrid to determine how long Bellingham’s recovery might take. Spanish media reports suggest Bellingham might be sidelined until late September which could rule him out of England’s first two Nations League matches under interim manager Lee Carsley.

England faces the Republic of Ireland on 7 September and Finland on 10 September. Real Madrid confirmed in a statement that Bellingham underwent medical tests on Friday for the calf problem and that the club will closely monitor his progress. Bellingham expressed his frustration on social media, saying, “Nothing I hate more than missing games, but I’m trying to see the positive side. Maybe my body is telling me it needs more rest after a busy year. I’ll support the lads like a fan until I can rejoin them in my best form.”

Lee Carsley, who became England’s interim manager following Gareth Southgate’s resignation after Euro 2024 will announce his squad for the upcoming Nations League fixtures on 29 August. Carsley, 50 will work with former England left-back Ashley Cole during his interim tenure. Additionally, ex-England centre-back Joleon Lescott and the Football Association’s head of coaching Tim Dittmer joined Carsley’s backroom staff.

Bellingham, who joined Real Madrid from Borussia Dortmund, delivered a stellar debut season at the Bernabeu, scoring 23 goals in 42 appearances as Madrid secured both the La Liga and Champions League titles. He recently played in Real Madrid’s 1-1 La Liga draw against Mallorca and their Super Cup victory over Atalanta.