Bellingham and Mbappé Ready for Atlético Madrid Clash – Real Madrid Receive Injury Boost

Real Madrid have received a significant boost ahead of Sunday’s LaLiga derby against Atlético Madrid, with both midfielder Jude Bellingham and forward Kylian Mbappé declared fit to play by manager Álvaro Arbeloa. Bellingham returns from a hamstring injury, while Mbappé is fully recovered from a knee sprain.

Bellingham Returns to Squad

Jude Bellingham, who has been sidelined since February with a hamstring injury sustained during a 2-1 win over Rayo Vallecano, is available for selection. Arbeloa confirmed Bellingham’s inclusion in the squad, stating, “He’s available, and he’ll be in the squad tomorrow. We’ll see if he plays. I reckon so. I’m looking forward to seeing him on the pitch.” ESPN

The 22-year-old midfielder was also named in England manager Thomas Tuchel’s squad for upcoming friendlies against Uruguay and Japan, despite his recent injury. Arbeloa expressed his understanding of the national team call-up, acknowledging the importance of the World Cup later this year. SI.com

Mbappé Declared 100% Fit

Kylian Mbappé, who recently returned from a knee sprain as a substitute against Manchester City in the Champions League, has been declared “100%” fit by Arbeloa. “The day he returns, it’s due to the fact that he’s 100%,” Arbeloa stated. “The minutes we saw him play in Manchester, I think every single action showed he’s in great shape.” Flashscore

Mbappé is also included in France’s squad for friendlies against Brazil and Colombia.

Tactical Adjustments Expected

Arbeloa acknowledged that he will need to make tactical adjustments to accommodate both Bellingham and Mbappé in the lineup. “We’ll make some adjustments,” he said. “Of course it’s not the same playing with Brahim [Diaz] as with Mbappé, or with Jude or Thiago [Pitarch]…”

Other Team News

Arbeloa stated there is “no timeline” for the return of goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who suffered a muscular injury against Manchester City. He also praised defender Antonio Rüdiger, whose contract is set to expire this summer, stating he would “make a statue” of the player. ESPN