Real Madrid Wins Club World Cup Match as Alonso Adjusts Bellingham Role

Jude Bellingham remains a pivotal figure for Real Madrid, praised for his competitive spirit, versatility, and leadership, but his role under new coach Xabi Alonso presents challenges. Alonso, a former elite midfielder himself, aims to find the best system to optimize Bellingham's dynamic talents, though early performances have shown the midfielder struggling to balance defensive responsibilities with his attacking instincts. Bellingham is managing a lingering shoulder injury sustained in late 2023 and plans surgery after the Club World Cup, which he has recently helped Real Madrid win despite playing with protective strapping. His teammates and coach laud his determination and adaptability, with Alonso emphasizing the need to integrate Bellingham effectively alongside other stars like Arda Güler and Trent Alexander-Arnold. Critics note Bellingham's reduced influence in deeper midfield roles, suggesting Alonso might consider tactics similar to those Borussia Dortmund employed to maximize Bellingham’s impact. Overall, Alonso's management of Bellingham's positioning and physical condition will be critical to their mutual success at Real Madrid.