Manager Carlo Ancelotti has stated that Jude Bellingham’s position at Real Madrid will remain unchanged despite the arrival of Kylian Mbappe.
The 21-year-old England midfielder enjoyed a stellar first season with the club, taking on an advanced role and netting 23 goals in 42 appearances as Real Madrid triumphed in both La Liga and the Champions League.
Kylian Mbappe, a 25-year-old forward from France, joined Real Madrid this summer on a free transfer from Paris St-Germain.
Ancelotti refuted suggestions that Bellingham would adopt a more defensive position to make space for Mbappe, asserting: “Nothing changes for him. Nothing changes.”
“In his first season, he caught many by surprise, displaying extraordinary quality and maturity. The upcoming season will be no different.”
“He is set to be one of our standout players, providing significant support to the team with his skill.”
Ancelotti also rallied behind Bellingham after feedback regarding his performances at Euro 2024, where England finished as runners-up.
“That’s just one viewpoint, but Bellingham performed admirably at the Euros,” he noted.
“England played exceptionally well, reached the final, and were very close to winning. I don’t see why players should feel tired for that match.”
“Top players are accustomed to playing every three days; they handle that effectively and can make it through the season without issues.”
Additionally, Ancelotti recommended that Chelsea’s owners practice more patience with their managers, having dismissed Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter, and Mauricio Pochettino since the ownership transition.
The former Chelsea manager is set to face off against his fellow countryman Enzo Maresca as both clubs wrap up their US tours at the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte on Tuesday night.
He remarked: “They have invested heavily. Their squad is talented, with many young players and a young manager. The owners need to exercise a bit of patience to gain experience and grow. However, the signings they’ve made are quite promising.”
Before explaining that Madrid doesn’t need to re-sign exiled Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, who was on loan at Santiago Bernabeu last season, Ancelotti concluded: “We have great affection for him. We really like him, but we are well-covered in that position.”
