Jude Bellingham returns to Real Madrid squad ahead of Champions League opener with Mason Greenwood looming
Midfielder named in 23-man group weeks after shoulder surgery as Xabi Alonso prepares for first Champions League match in charge
Jude Bellingham has been named in Real Madrid's 23-man squad for Tuesday's Champions League opener against Marseille, returning to contention just weeks after undergoing shoulder surgery.
The 22-year-old England midfielder had been expected to be sidelined until next month but was included by coach Xabi Alonso for the Bernabeu fixture, providing a timely boost to Madrid as they begin their campaign to extend the club's European record. The selection also sets up the possibility of a reunion with Mason Greenwood, who joined Marseille from Manchester United in the summer.
Bellingham's return comes after a summer spent on the treatment table. Madrid medical staff cleared him to travel with the squad and he was considered fit enough for selection on the day the team announced its Champions League group-list. Greenwood, 23, has enjoyed an encouraging start to life in France, scoring twice in three appearances this season.
The two players were involved in a heated on-field incident in February 2024 when Madrid met Getafe in La Liga. Reports at the time said Bellingham accused Greenwood of a serious offence; the matter was reported to league authorities and Greenwood subsequently urged that the investigation be dropped. Madrid and Marseille now face off in a match that could renew attention on that prior clash, though both clubs have provided no public comment on any personal matters between the players.
Tuesday's match will be Alonso's first Champions League fixture as Real Madrid head coach. Alonso, who won the competition as a player in 2005, has overseen a strong start to the La Liga season, with Madrid top of the table after four wins from five matches.
While Bellingham's place in the squad appears secure, competition for other positions has been more pronounced. England international Trent Alexander-Arnold has started only two of Madrid's four league matches since his summer move from Liverpool, with veteran Dani Carvajal remaining Xabi Alonso's preferred right-back. Alonso publicly praised Carvajal's leadership last week, a vote of confidence that could influence selection for the match against Marseille.
Greenwood's permanent exit from Manchester United followed the club's decision not to reintegrate him after his 2022 arrest and the subsequent dropping of charges. His onward move to Marseille and productive early-season form have been closely watched by observers tracing his career revival abroad.
Real Madrid will aim to harness Bellingham's return as they begin their Champions League campaign at home, while Marseille will seek to capitalise on Greenwood's form and test Madrid's depth and defensive organisation. Team news is expected to be finalised closer to kickoff as both coaches weigh fitness and tactical considerations.