While Real Madrid got a great 2-2 draw against Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena, a player that seemed off was Jude Bellingham. Real Madrid's coach Carlo Ancelotti subbed him off the pitch in the 75th minute, which left many confused as to why since he is still a crucial player who could deliver at any moment. Ancelotti spoke after the game and explained his decision. Ancelotti said, "Jude Bellingham was not at the best level tonight, but same for the entire team. He got cramps after 60 minutes so I had to sub him off.”
🗣️ Ancelotti: “Jude Bellingham was not at the best level tonight, but same for the entire team. He got cramps after 60 minutes so I had to sub him off.”
— Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) April 30, 2024
The Atheltic reports that Bellingham barely trained ahead of the Bayern Munich match due to a virus. Reports from Spain last week suggested that Bellingham and Rodrygo were both sick and wouldn't be called up for the Real Sociedad match in La Liga last Friday. While Bellingham was called up for the 1-0 win against Real Sociedad, Rodrygo did not join the squad. Bellingham did not play against Real Sociedad to rest for the Bayern Munich game, but Madrid fans are concerned about the cramp problems that Ancelotti mentioned.
🚨 Jude Bellingham barely trained in the lead-up to this game because of a virus.@TheAthleticFC pic.twitter.com/kmIZh2gv9p
— Football Tweet ⚽ (@Football__Tweet) April 30, 2024
Against Bayern Munich, Bellingham had 60 touches in the match, and he created one chance on goal. The English midfielder had a 90% pass accuracy, four passes into the final third, and 67% successful dribbles. He won 55% of ground duels and won two out of two tackles in the match.
Jude Bellingham tried distracting Harry Kane from the penalty
In the 55th minute, Bayern Munich was awarded a penalty after Jamal Musiala was clipped in the box. Harry Kane stepped up for the penalty, but before he kicked the ball, Bellingham approached him and said some words to the Bayern striker. Kane ignored him and then scored the 2-1 for Bayern to take the lead. Kane spoke after the game and was asked about the incident, and he said, "I don't know what he was saying. I saw him mumbling something, but I was so focused. I'm sure he was saying something to put me off."
So, what do you think Jude Bellingham said to Harry Kane as he was about to take the penalty? 👀pic.twitter.com/p3cyMNMuz3
— CentreGoals. (@centregoals) April 30, 2024
