Two ways Real Madrid can optimise formation once Jude Bellingham returns | OneFootball

Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham is finally set to return to training on Monday for the first time after recovering from shoulder surgery following the FIFA Club World Cup.

Everyone is eagerly waiting for his comeback, though it is unlikely he will feature in matches until after the next FIFA international break in October.

His return will undoubtedly boost the team, but it also presents a challenge for Xabi Alonso, who has built a balanced system in Bellingham’s absence.

Without Bellingham, Real Madrid have found a surprising stability. So far this season, they have conceded only one clear scoring chance, an impressive improvement compared to Barcelona, who have already given away 12.

On top of that, Thibaut Courtois is making 44% fewer saves than last season, showing how solid the defence has been.

Therefore, the question now is whether Madrid can maintain this balance once Bellingham returns.

With his status and value, he will almost certainly be a starter, which means either Arda Guler or Franco Mastantuono may lose their place in the team.

Real Madrid have several ways to integrate Bellingham back into the squad. Here are two likely formations based on Alonso’s preferred strategies:

Real Madrid’s preferred 4-3-3

Jude Bellingham will return to action in October. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)

A 4-3-3 formation would place Bellingham in midfield alongside Aurelien Tchouameni and Federico Valverde, both of whom have been key figures in important matches.

In this setup, Bellingham would have to take on additional defensive responsibilities, staying deeper and slightly away from the opponent’s goal.

This formation allows Mastantuono to retain a role in the front three, while Guler also remains an option thanks to his versatility and powerful left foot.

The Turk’s ability to combine with teammates and shoot from distance could make him a tactical asset, though his deeper positioning would complement Bellingham’s more central role.

The old school 4-4-2

Alonso will have to tweak his starting XI. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

Another possibility is a classic 4-4-2 formation, which allows Guler to partner with Tchouameni in midfield.

This levels the field between them and gives Madrid a solid defensive structure while Bellingham moves closer to the opposition goal.

In this system, only two forwards – Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr. – play upfront, which reduces not only Mastantuono’s chances of starting but also of Rodrygo’s.

The 4-4-2 also ensures that the midfield remains strong, with Bellingham benefiting from the defensive support of Valverde, Tchouameni, and Guler.

An important presence for Real Madrid

Even though Madrid have adapted well without him, the team is eager for Bellingham’s return.

Real Madrid have performed admirably without Bellingham so far. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images)

The English midfielder made a massive impression, justifying the more than €100 million paid to Borussia Dortmund.

He scored 23 goals in 42 games, showing both creativity and finishing ability during his debut campaign.

Hence, when he finally returns at the end of October, Real Madrid will expect the full version of Bellingham – the dynamic player who can change games in midfield and add a new dimension to their attack.

How Xabi Alonso chooses to integrate him will be critical in maintaining the team’s balance while maximising the Englishman’s incredible talent.