Real Madrid’s stand-in coach, Alvaro Arbeloa, has announced the return to full fitness of Jude Bellingham and Eder Militao ahead of the critical UEFA Champions League quarter-final match against Bayern Munich on April 7.
During a press briefing before the game, Arbeloa commended the Brazilian defender, who had been sidelined since early December due to a hamstring injury picked up in a La Liga game against Celta Vigo.
“He is a game-changer, and we are delighted to have him back,” Arbeloa remarked, as quoted by Yahoo Sports. “When he is fit, he will undoubtedly be one of the top center-backs globally. I haven’t had the opportunity to coach him yet, but he is an exceptional center-back. His abilities and leadership will be immensely beneficial to us.”
Militao has a history of injuries, including torn cruciate ligament issues in consecutive seasons in 2023 and 2024. His return will ease concerns in Madrid’s defensive line, with Ferland Mendy and Raul Asencio also expected to be fit.
Arbeloa expressed contentment that all his players returned unharmed from the recent international break. “The primary goal was accomplished as all the international players returned in good health. It has been a positive break for most of them, gaining valuable playing time,” he added.
However, Arbeloa admitted surprise at Jude’s England national team call-up despite the midfielder’s recent hamstring injury. Although Jude did not feature in England’s friendlies against Uruguay and Japan, Arbeloa mentioned his readiness to contribute to the upcoming games.
Real Madrid, currently in second place in La Liga, trailing arch-rivals Barcelona by four points, will first play Mallorca on Saturday before the crucial midweek encounter against Bayern Munich.