Jude Bellingham Suffers Calf Injury Ahead of Nations League Matches

Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham has sustained a calf injury during training, just over two weeks before England’s Nations League campaign begins. The 21-year-old was unable to complete a club session on Friday, raising concerns about his availability for the upcoming international fixtures.

Reports from Spain suggest that Bellingham could be sidelined until late September, potentially ruling him out of England’s first two Nations League matches under interim manager Lee Carsley. The Three Lions are scheduled to face the Republic of Ireland on 7 September and Finland on 10 September.

Real Madrid confirmed that Bellingham underwent medical tests on Friday to assess the injury to his right calf, stating that his “progress will be monitored.”

Bellingham expressed his frustration on social media, saying, “Nothing I hate more than missing games but trying to see the positive side and maybe my body is telling me it needs a bit more rest after a busy year. I’m very frustrated but I’ll be supporting the lads like a fan until I can re-join them again in my best and strongest form.”

This injury comes at a crucial time for Bellingham, who had an impressive debut season at Real Madrid, scoring 23 goals in 42 appearances and helping the team secure a La Liga and Champions League double. He also played in last weekend’s 1-1 La Liga draw against Mallorca and the Super Cup victory over Atalanta earlier this month.

England’s interim manager, Lee Carsley, is set to name his squad for the Nations League fixtures on 29 August. Carsley, who took over following Gareth Southgate’s resignation after Euro 2024, will be assisted by former England players Ashley Cole and Joleon Lescott, as well as the Football Association’s head of coaching, Tim Dittmer.