Carlo Ancelotti downplays Jude Bellingham injury concerns ahead of the important Champions League fixture

Real Madrid is now entering the final phase of their ongoing campaign, remaining alive in three different competitions. They are second in the La Liga table, having played one more game than their arch-rivals Barcelona, and have advanced to the semifinals of the Copa del Rey. Additionally, they have already played the first leg of the UEFA Champions League Round of 16. However, while competing in these tournaments, they are slightly losing their way due to injuries.

Ahead of the Round of 16 fixture against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, Carlo Ancelotti spoke about the players available for the second leg. While fans were concerned about Jude Bellingham being substituted on the pitch, Ancelotti mentioned that the player had a knock, but it was nothing serious to be worried about. He said:

Jude Bellingham just has a small knock, nothing serious,

Jude Bellingham was unavailable for the first leg of the game against Atletico Madrid due to suspension and also missed two domestic games as part of the ban. With Bellingham now at his disposal, Real Madrid will look to turn the screws on the Rojiblancos in the second leg. While addressing the availability of Modrić for the crucial game, Ancelotti also mentioned that the 39-year-old will be available to work his magic in midfield. Ancelotti opined that the player was tired at the end of the game, as it had been a tough one. He also expressed hope that Courtois and Rüdiger will recover from the flu and be available to feature against their city rivals. Ancelotti said:

Will Modric play against Atletico? Modric will recover; he finished the match well. I was a bit tired, like everyone else, because it was a tough match. I believe they will all recover well. We hope Rudiger and Courtois recover from the flu

What did Federico Valverde have to say about his injury?

Federico Valverde continue to impress fans with his work rate and attacking ability, not only in La Liga but also in the Champions League. He worked tirelessly against the Rojiblancos, prompting Ancelotti to rest the Uruguayan. However, Valverde mentioned that he is happy and calm, allowing his body to recover. He said:

I'm happy, delighted. Mentally I'm calm with what we're doing physically to recover my body