Sofia Quijada
Real Madrid received a double fitness boost ahead of Sunday’s LaLiga derby against Atletico Madrid, with manager Alvaro Arbeloa confirming Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe are ready for selection.
Bellingham, 22, returns to the squad after a ten-match absence caused by a hamstring injury sustained in February. Mbappe, 27, proved his fitness during a second-half cameo against Manchester City in the Champions League earlier this week. The French forward appears to have moved past a left knee sprain that recently limited his involvement.
Arbeloa addressed the media on Saturday to discuss the availability of his star duo before the high-stakes clash at the Bernabeu.
“Bellingham’s available now; he’ll be in the squad tomorrow. We’ll see if he plays – I think he will. I’m really looking forward to seeing him on the pitch,” Arbeloa stated.
Current standings show Real Madrid in second place, trailing leaders Barcelona by four points after 28 matchdays. Atletico Madrid occupy fourth position in the table. The availability of Mbappe is critical for the hosts, as he leads the league scoring charts with 23 goals this season.
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The manager dismissed any concerns regarding Mbappe playing through pain or being rushed back prematurely for the derby.
“The day he returns, it’s because he’s 100%. The minutes we saw him play in Manchester, I think every single action showed he’s in great shape. Above all, it’s about how he feels. Maximum confidence, maximum assurance and maximum excitement to have such a player back,” the coach added.
Both players have also been summoned for international duty. Bellingham was selected by England manager Thomas Tuchel for upcoming matches against Uruguay and Japan. Similarly, Mbappe joined the France squad for friendlies against Brazil and Colombia as nations prepare for the World Cup.
Arbeloa expressed no frustration over his stars departing for international fixtures immediately after returning from injury. Having represented his own country during his playing career, he noted that he understands the pride and responsibility involved in these call-ups. Follow TipsGG for comprehensive LaLiga coverage and live match updates.