Real Madrid is experiencing a moment of excitement with Jude Bellingham's recovery, as he enters the final stretch of his rehabilitation with his sights set on the end of February. The English midfielder, a key piece last season, will return to strengthen a team that's already firing on all cylinders under Xabi Alonso's leadership. However, the news of his return also opens up an inevitable debate: someone will have to leave the starting eleven to make room for him.
The internal competition is fierce and Madrid's attacking combinations seem to fit together with precision. However, Bellingham's hierarchy and influence force changes in a puzzle that's already packed with talent.
Xabi Alonso's scheme
Xabi Alonso is clear about his game plan. Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo alternate on the left wing, providing speed and dribbling. On the right, Mastantuono and Brahim Díaz share the spotlight, with the Argentine expected to be one of the year's great revelations.
Mbappé has taken over the center of the attack, while in midfield Tchouaméni is undisputed as the pivot and Valverde is considered indispensable for his physical presence and ability to get forward.
In that scenario, the only position available for Bellingham is the one currently contested by Mastantuono and Arda Güler. The Englishman has the support of the club and the coach. His return will mean a change of roles for the young talents who had been taking advantage of his absence.
The main casualties
Mastantuono, newly arrived and just 18, has impressed with his maturity. His role will be reduced as soon as Bellingham is fully fit.
Güler, meanwhile, is another name under scrutiny. His quality is unquestionable, but Madrid's demands don't allow weakening the starting eleven just to keep promises.
Both footballers will have to accept that they'll move into a secondary role, serving as options from the bench or starters in rotation matches. This is the harsh reality of competing in a squad that combines world-class stars with young players eager for their chance.
A desired return
The target date is before the end of February. In Valdebebas, they trust Bellingham can be available for the decisive Champions League matches and the key stretch of La Liga.
The English attacking midfielder was the team's top scorer in his first season. His partnership with Mbappé promises to take Real Madrid to another level.
Xabi Alonso, aware of the pressure that comes with managing so many stars, has already made his decision. Mastantuono and Güler will make room for him.
The Basque coach believes their youth will allow them to absorb the blow. Grow by playing less demanding minutes, thus avoiding changes to more established players.