Real Madrid’s interim head coach Alvaro Arbeloa has confirmed the return to match fitness of Jude Bellingham and Eder Militao ahead of their crucial UEFA Champions League quarter-final clash with Bayern Munich on April 7.
In a pre-match press conference, Arbeloa was full of praise for the Brazilian defender, who had been out injured since early December. Militao had pulled his hamstring during their La Liga clash against Celta Vigo, forcing him off the field.
“He’s a game changer, and we’re thrilled to have him back,” Arbeloa said ahead of their game against RCD Mallorca, as quoted by Yahoo Sports. “When fit, he’ll surely be the best centre-back in the world. I haven’t had the chance to coach him yet, but he’s a sensational centre-back. His skills and leadership will help us immensely.”
Militao has a history of injuries, having suffered torn cruciate ligament injuries in successive seasons in 2023 and 2024. With his return, Madrid’s backline will have one less concern. Both Ferland Mendy and Raul Asencio are also expected to be declared fit.
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Additionally, Arbeloa expressed satisfaction that all his players returned from the international break without any issues.
“The international players have all returned healthy, thankfully, and that’s the primary objective. It’s been a very positive break for most of them, as they’ve been getting playing time,” he added.
Arbeloa, however, admitted he was surprised by Jude’s call-up for England national team duty. The English midfielder had also been struggling with a hamstring injury sustained in Los Blancos’ 2-1 victory over Rayo Vallecano in February 2026. However, Jude did not take part in England’s two friendlies against Uruguay and Japan.
“His case was a bit unusual because he played a few minutes against Atletico, but Tuchel has now decided against it. They didn’t want to take any risks. Jude is smart enough to have had some good training sessions, and he’s ready to help tomorrow. We need him to get back to match fitness.”
Real Madrid are currently second in La Liga, four points behind arch-rivals Barcelona (73), and will face Mallorca on Saturday before their all-important midweek clash against Bayern Munich.
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