Midfielder Faces Two-Match Ban, but Ancelotti Confident in Squad Depth Amid Tight LaLiga Title Race
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has revealed the club will appeal to reduce Jude Bellingham’s two-match suspension after the England international was sent off during last weekend’s 1-1 draw with Osasuna. Bellingham received a straight red card for foul and abusive language, and while the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has already rejected an initial appeal to overturn the ban, Ancelotti remains hopeful the punishment can be shortened.
“We have to respect the decision,” Ancelotti said during a press conference ahead of Sunday’s pivotal LaLiga clash with Girona. “That said, the club will appeal in an attempt to cut down on the number of games he’ll miss. Someone else will play tomorrow. We’ve been capable of picking up good results without Bellingham, and we can do that tomorrow as well.”
Bellingham’s absence comes at a critical juncture in Real Madrid’s season. The team is currently second in LaLiga, level on 51 points with league leaders Barcelona, and will be looking to maintain their momentum after a thrilling 3-1 victory over Manchester City in the Champions League midweek.
Ancelotti emphasized the importance of Sunday’s match against Girona, describing it as a “hugely important moment in the season.” He added, “We gave a good account of ourselves against Manchester City, and we want to see a repeat of that. We’ve reached a point where we can’t afford to slip up. LaLiga is very tight, and every game could be crucial in finishing the campaign in a good position.”
Despite Bellingham’s suspension, Ancelotti expressed confidence in his squad’s depth and resilience. “We’ve had a bit of bad luck,” he admitted. “In the last three games, we’ve done pretty well. We were much better against Atletico than we were against Espanyol. The same goes for Osasuna, where we were close to winning it with 10 men. We have to keep it up. If you play well and show a good attitude, the results will reward you in the end.”
The Italian manager also provided a positive update on the team’s fitness, confirming that midfielder Dani Ceballos is “fine” after an injury scare during the Manchester City match. “All the guys who played are fine,” Ancelotti said. “I’ll assess who needs a rest today. I think having fresh legs will really help us in tomorrow’s match.”
Ancelotti also hinted at the possible return of defender David Alaba, who has been sidelined for an extended period. “The squad is improving from a physical perspective, and we’re getting the centre-backs back in training,” he said. “Alaba could be an option tomorrow after a long time out. I’ll have to consider a few little things today.”
As Real Madrid prepare for a crucial stretch of the season, Ancelotti’s focus remains on maintaining their form and navigating the challenges posed by injuries and suspensions. With the LaLiga title race heating up, every decision—and every appeal—could prove decisive in the quest for silverware.
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