Jude Bellingham Questions Ancelotti’s Tactical Choices After Loss to Athletic Bilbao
Following Real Madrid’s unexpected 2-1 defeat to Athletic Bilbao, Jude Bellingham has raised concerns about Carlo Ancelotti’s tactical decisions, particularly the exclusion of two promising players, Endrick and Arda Güler. In a post-match interview, Bellingham clarified that he was not aiming to criticize Ancelotti but voiced frustration over the team’s performance and the impact of the lineup choices.
Bellingham’s Comments
“I’m not criticizing Ancelotti, but two players should not have been left out yesterday,” Bellingham remarked. “That was a key factor in our loss.” The English midfielder suggested that the absence of Endrick and Güler in the starting lineup disrupted the team’s balance, leaving Madrid struggling to find the necessary attacking spark against Bilbao.
The Bench Debate: Endrick and Arda Güler
Endrick, the highly regarded Brazilian talent, has impressed with his potential and training performances. Arda Güler, the Turkish playmaker, has also shown his creative flair in previous appearances. Both players were left on the bench, a decision Ancelotti likely viewed as strategic, but their absence has raised questions from fans and, now, from one of Madrid’s star players.
With key forwards like Vinícius Jr. and Rodrygo unable to break down Bilbao’s organized defense, many believe that introducing Endrick and Güler earlier might have shifted the game in Madrid’s favor.
Ancelotti’s Defense
Carlo Ancelotti defended his tactical choices in his post-match comments, stating, “Each game requires a unique strategy. We have a deep squad, and player rotations are essential to keep everyone fit. Sometimes these decisions work, sometimes they don’t.”
However, the loss has increased scrutiny of the Italian manager’s decisions as Real Madrid works to stay competitive in the La Liga title race.
Madrid’s Current Struggles
Real Madrid is currently juggling a demanding schedule with both domestic league matches and Champions League obligations, testing the depth of the squad. Ancelotti has stressed the importance of rotating players to avoid exhaustion, but there are growing concerns about whether the balance between maintaining fitness and fielding the strongest XI is being managed effectively.
Looking Forward
Bellingham’s comments suggest potential internal tension as the club faces the challenges of a highly competitive season. Fans will be keen to see how Ancelotti reacts to the criticism and whether Endrick and Güler will get more playing time in future matches.
For now, Madrid must quickly recover as they prepare for their next match. The pressure is on, and both players and management will need to come together to ensure the team rebounds with greater strength.
