Real Madrid midfield superstar turned to Ancelotti for help after difficult phase | OneFootball

The 2025/26 season was a difficult one for Real Madrid superstar Jude Bellingham, who was unable to find his best form both under Xabi Alonso and Alvaro Arbeloa.

Even with the England national team, where expectations remained sky-high, the midfielder struggled to rediscover the level that had made him one of the world’s most influential players during his first couple of years in Spain.

Bellingham seeks out Ancelotti for help

Now, according to AS, Bellingham turned to someone he trusted above all others: Carlo Ancelotti, in search of answers after a turbulent period.

The Italian manager had overseen the finest football of Bellingham’s career, and the England star wanted to hear his advice again. Above all, he sought guidance on how to navigate his complicated relationship with England boss Thomas Tuchel.

Bellingham reached out to Ancelotti for help. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Bellingham’s conversation with Ancelotti came at a moment when doubts were beginning to emerge around his role with the national team.

Tuchel’s uncompromising approach had already become clear ahead of the World Cup, with players such as Phil Foden, Cole Palmer and Trent Alexander-Arnold paying the price after being left out of the squad.

The Real Madrid midfielder wanted perspective from a coach who understood both elite football and the demands of managing dressing rooms. Ancelotti’s experience and calm approach proved invaluable.

A difficult season

Like much of Real Madrid, Bellingham endured a frustrating campaign. Shoulder surgery and muscular problems interrupted his momentum, while two managerial changes only added to the instability around him.

He struggled to find his place and, at times, looked far from the dominant force he had been during his first season in Spain.

Yet signs of recovery appeared towards the end of the campaign. Gradually, the midfielder began to resemble the player who had taken La Liga by storm.

Back to his best with England

Back to his best. (Photo by Francois Nel/Getty Images)

Bellingham’s first World Cup appearance with England offered further evidence that he has rediscovered himself. While his goal attracted headlines, his overall influence on the game stood out even more.

He once again looked like the heartbeat of the side, dictating play and driving England forward. His performances have silenced some of the doubts that had emerged, including questions raised by Tuchel himself regarding his role and importance.

Central to Mourinho’s Real Madrid

Those close to Real Madrid are delighted by the resurgence. Inside Valdebebas, Bellingham is viewed as one of the pillars of Jose Mourinho’s new project and remains untouchable within the club’s plans.

There is a strong belief that much of the Portuguese manager’s success will depend on getting the very best from the England international.

After months of uncertainty, Bellingham appears to have found his way back. And according to those around him, a crucial phone call to Carlo Ancelotti helped set him on that path.