At Real Madrid, an unexpected debate has surfaced: where does Jude Bellingham fit into Xabi Alonso’s starting eleven? Nobody questions the Englishman’s talent or the impact he has made since arriving, and least of all Xabi, who still regards him as a key player. But after his shoulder surgery, a lack of rhythm could weigh him down at precisely the moment when two rising stars—Arda Güler and Franco Mastantuono—are becoming untouchable.

The Turkish midfielder has stepped forward as the true conductor of Madrid’s game. Not only is he the team’s most inventive player, but also the one who best dictates tempo. His ability to turn in tight spaces, receive under pressure, and unlock defenses with a single pass has made him Mbappé’s perfect partner. In Almaty, Madrid played at the tempo set by Güler.

Alongside him, Mastantuono has burst onto the scene with maturity far beyond his age. Fierce in duels, tireless in his pressing, and fearless in personality, the Argentine injects intensity and energy into the team. He runs the right flank relentlessly, balances the midfield, and still finds ways to join attacks. If Güler provides vision and elegance, Mastantuono brings grit, power, and spark. Together, they give Madrid a more complete balance.

That’s where the dilemma lies. Bellingham remains a complete midfielder—capable of scoring, creating, and leading—but his natural role overlaps with Güler’s. While Xabi Alonso knows rotations will ensure everyone gets minutes, the reality is that right now, the Englishman is at a disadvantage.

What seemed impossible only months ago is now reality: Güler and Mastantuono are making it very hard for Jude Bellingham to reclaim his starting spot.

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