Bellingham trims down as Real Madrid push for sharper pressing after shoulder surgery

Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham has been asked to shed bulk and sharpen his physique to fit Xabi Alonso's high- pressing approach, according to reports, as he resumes action after shoulder surgery. The England midfielder came on as a late substitute in Real Madrid's 2-0 La Liga win over Espanyol on Saturday, marking his first minutes of the season.

AS reported that the transformation was directed by Madrid's medical and coaching teams to protect the shoulder and improve agility in the midfielder's movement and ball distribution. The shift comes after a period where Madrid had urged a bulkier frame during rehabilitation, a look that was visible in a SKIMS campaign in which Bellingham appeared with Kim Kardashian. The club now intends to trim him down to help him function more aggressively in the way Alonso wants his side to press.

Bellingham dislocated his left shoulder in November 2023 during a La Liga match against Rayo Vallecano. He underwent surgery in London in July after playing through the injury for much of the previous season, a recovery period that kept him out of competitive action for several months and left a visible scar when the Shield was taken off. The shoulder issue briefly shadowed Madrid’s preparations for and participation in the Club World Cup, though he did contribute to Madrid’s campaign during that tournament before finally returning to full training earlier this summer.

The 22-year-old has long been praised for his influence in Madrid’s attacking phase, and the club’s plan to trim his frame is part of a broader strategy to maximize his mobility and ball-dominant pressing. In his first season in the Spanish capital after arriving from Borussia Dortmund in 2023, Bellingham scored 23 goals and registered 13 assists; the following campaign saw him tally 15 goals and 15 assists, numbers Madrid hopes to rebuild with a leaner, sharper profile.

Since returning, Bellingham has showcased a refreshed look and a renewed sense of purpose. He posted on Instagram after his comeback: “Missed this and all of you so much. Truly humbled by the love you gave me in the stadium today and the support from everyone throughout my recovery. Now for more. Hala Madrid!” The public message underscored his eagerness to resume his influence at the heart of Madrid’s attack.

Madrid’s medical staff continue to manage his reintegration as the club weighs a potential early return to major fixtures. If his return progresses as planned, Bellingham could be in line to start the Madrid derby against Atletico later this month and then face Liverpool in the Champions League at Anfield on November 4.

In the meantime, Bellingham has remained a central figure in Madrid’s squad plans as the club seeks to restore the form that made him one of Europe’s most coveted talents at his arrival. His contribution to Madrid’s campaign—and the balance between his peak athleticism and the need to protect the shoulder—will shape how the team deploys him in Alonso’s system as the season unfolds.