🔬 The Debrief: Bellingham shines as Real Madrid ease past Athletic Club | OneFootball

Jude Bellingham starred as Real Madrid got their LaLiga campaign off to the perfect start with a comfortable win over Athletic Club.

Here we break down what was a fascinating battle at San Mames.

What happened?

Rodrygo opened the scoring in the 28th minute before a beauty from Bellingham produced a beauty on his debut as Real eased to victory in Bilbao.

Man of the Match

Jonathan Woodgate might have had one of the worst debuts in Real Madrid’s history but there was no problem for their latest Englishman. Jude Bellingham made it look easy, looking untouchable when driving through midfield  at times and linking up well with Rodrygo and Vinícius Juníor already. Some start from the 20-year-old.

Key Detail

All eyes were going to be on the shape Carlo Ancelotti was going to opt to go with considering the gluttony of options the Italian has in midfield this season. The proof was in the pudding as Fede Valverde, Aurélien Tchouaméni and Eduardo Camavinga joined Bellingham in the middle as Ancelotti went for 4-4-2- diamond formation.

The early signs are promising, Vinícius and Rodrygo’s persistent runs behind the Athletic Club defence caused trouble all game, and with the quality of midfielders playing the balls in from behind then the attacking pair aren’t likely to be starved of service.

Real did look like they could be got at from out wide but there was an element of assured control from Ancelotti’s side today. So far, so good.

Stat of the Match

Ok it’s not just one stat but it’s still important.

Bellingham won more duels than any other player (13), managed six ball recoveries, won six fouls and mustered up a 83% pass completion rate. The complete all-round midfield performance from the 20-year-old.

What this means

It was essential that Real started with a win as they look to grasp the LaLiga title back from the clutches of the champions Barcelona.

San Mames is a notoriously difficult place to go where Los Blancos have struggled on occasions in the past but they looked assured, dominant and flawless tonight.

A statement win of sorts, but this victory was more a sign that the new Real Madrid has a bit about them.

What comes next?

Real Madrid travel to Almería next weekend while Athletic Club face off against Osasuna in a Basque derby.