Real Madrid will face Manchester City in the Champions League without key player Jude Bellingham, who has been ruled out of the first leg at the Santiago Bernabéu due to a hamstring injury. This injury has limited his availability recently, and while he is currently unable to play, Bellingham and the medical team are optimistic about his return for the second leg at the Etihad Stadium on March 17.

The absence of Bellingham is compounded by another injury setback for Real Madrid, as star striker Kylian Mbappé is also out with a knee sprain. Although he has begun light individual training, he has not yet progressed to ball work, casting doubt on his participation in the crucial match. This leaves Real Madrid’s attacking options significantly weakened against a strong Manchester City side.

Bellingham has opted to seek specialized treatment in London to address his ongoing injury concerns. His recovery will be closely monitored, as his presence is deemed vital for Real Madrid’s success in this knockout stage of the Champions League, particularly with the team striving to advance to the quarter-finals against a formidable opponent like Manchester City.