Xabi Alonso is set to begin his journey as Real Madrid manager without one of his most important players.
According to The Athletic, Jude Bellingham is expected to undergo surgery after the 2025 Club World Cup.
The surgery is aimed at fixing a shoulder injury that has been troubling the midfielder since late 2023.
The recovery process is expected to keep the England international out for up to 12 weeks. He could miss the opening two months of the 2025–26 La Liga season.
It is a big blow for Madrid, who rely heavily on the 21-year-old in their midfield. Bellingham first suffered the injury during a league match against Rayo Vallecano.
He dislocated his shoulder and missed the next four matches before returning with a protective strap.
Bellingham has been playing through discomfort, using a shoulder support in every match.
The medical team had recommended surgery earlier, but a packed football calendar delayed the procedure.
Bellingham impresses despite Madrid’s struggles
He joined the club from Borussia Dortmund in a high-profile transfer in 2023 and settled in quickly.
Despite the ongoing shoulder problem, Bellingham has been one of Madrid’s best performers this season.
He bagged nine goals and nine assists in 31 La Liga appearances, but was unable to help Madrid retain the title.
His absence at the start of the new campaign will test Madrid’s squad depth.
Fans will hope he recovers in time to make a strong return by October or early November.
Alonso now faces the tough task of reshaping his midfield without Bellingham for the early fixtures.
