England and Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham has successfully undergone surgery to address a long-term shoulder injury that has troubled him since late 2023. The 22-year-old, one of the brightest stars in European football, is expected to miss Real Madrid’s entire pre-season as well as the opening six weeks of the 2025/26 campaign.
Bellingham’s injury dates back to a dislocation he suffered during a La Liga match against Rayo Vallecano last November. Despite strapping and extensive physiotherapy, the discomfort persisted throughout the season. Speaking to reporters in June, the midfielder admitted he was “tired of playing with the sling” and hinted at an imminent solution.
Real Madrid, who recently appointed Xabi Alonso as manager, confirmed the surgery was scheduled following the Club World Cup in the United States. Los Blancos were eliminated in the semi-finals by Paris Saint-Germain last week, paving the way for Bellingham’s long-anticipated procedure.
In a statement released by the club, Real Madrid said: “Jude Bellingham has undergone successful surgery on his shoulder injury and will now begin a structured rehabilitation program before rejoining team training.”
The timing of the operation means Bellingham is set to miss several crucial fixtures, including England’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Serbia in September. With Gareth Southgate already managing a squad in transition, Bellingham’s absence will be a major blow to England’s midfield plans.
Real Madrid’s La Liga season begins at home against Osasuna on August 19, and Bellingham is unlikely to feature before October. His recovery period is expected to span at least six weeks, although that could be extended depending on his rehabilitation progress.
Bellingham joined Real Madrid from Borussia Dortmund in 2023 for a reported £115 million, becoming one of the most expensive British footballers in history. He had an explosive debut season, scoring 23 goals in 43 appearances and playing a pivotal role in Real’s La Liga and Champions League double.
However, the following season saw a dip in both team and personal performance. Bellingham managed 15 goals in 58 appearances as Real Madrid lost the domestic title to arch-rivals Barcelona and exited the Champions League in the quarter-finals at the hands of Arsenal.
Despite the setback, Bellingham remains central to Real Madrid’s long-term plans under Alonso. The new manager, himself a former midfielder, has spoken highly of Bellingham’s versatility, vision, and leadership on the pitch.
For now, all eyes will be on his recovery process. Both club and country will be eager to see the midfielder return to full fitness ahead of a busy season that includes league campaigns, Champions League battles, and the build-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers
