Real Madrid vs Stuttgart: Jude Bellingham Set to Return in Champions League Shake-up
Real Madrid Returns to Champions League Action
European champions Real Madrid are back in action in the competition for the first time in its new 36-team format. The revamped format will see clubs compete in a giant league system with eight games. Manager Carlo Ancelotti will have his frontline back to full strength, with the return of Jude Bellingham to the line-up.
Injury Updates and Lineup Predictions
Carlo Ancelotti confirmed that Bellingham, Aurelien Tchouameni, and Eder Militao would all be fit for the upcoming clash. However, Dani Ceballos, David Alaba, Brahim Diaz, and Eduardo Camavinga remain sidelined due to injuries. Marca reports that Bellingham and Tchouameni will be back in action from the start, with Rodrygo Goes also expected to feature after being on the bench in their recent win over Real Sociedad.
Key Players and Formations
Stuttgart, Real Madrid’s upcoming opponents, have fewer injury concerns. Deniz Undav is set to be their key player up front, with Ermedin Demirovic leading the line. Despite the absence of some key players, Stuttgart have managed to score 17 goals in their last 5 games. However, they have struggled to replace their starting center-back pair, Waldemar Anton and Hiroki Ito.
Recent Performances and Criticisms
Real Madrid has won three of their last four games, scoring eight goals and keeping three clean sheets. Despite their positive results, their performances have been criticized for being underwhelming. In their recent match against Real Sociedad, they were lucky as their opponents hit the woodwork three times, with Real Madrid only managing to score through two penalties.
