El Clasico result could dictate when Real Madrid stalwart will undergo surgery – report | OneFootball

According to journalist Rodra, via RM4 Arab, the outcome of today’s highly anticipated El Clasico could directly impact when Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham undergoes surgery on his lingering shoulder injury.

The English midfielder has been managing the issue for some time, but it is now confirmed that surgery is unavoidable. However, what remains in question is the timing.

Real Madrid’s preference is to delay the operation until after the Club World Cup, a tournament the club views as strategically and commercially significant. Losing Bellingham for that event is something the club hierarchy is keen to avoid.

However, the midfielder himself is leaning toward having the surgery sooner rather than later, aiming for a quicker full recovery even if it means missing some critical fixtures in the short term.

El Clasico result crucial

What complicates the decision is the result of today’s clash against Barcelona. Should Madrid lose and effectively fall out of the La Liga title race, the club may be more open to allowing Bellingham to go under the knife immediately.

In such a scenario, they would be sacrificing his presence at the Club World Cup in exchange for ensuring he returns fully fit for the latter stages of the season, including the Champions League knockouts.

Jude Bellingham is certain to undergo surgery. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

On the other hand, a win or even a draw in El Clasico would keep Real Madrid firmly in the title race.

That would strengthen the club’s argument to postpone surgery until after the Club World Cup, preserving Bellingham’s availability for the next month—even if it means prolonging his discomfort.

Tricky situation for Real Madridd

The situation presents a tough balancing act between player health and competitive ambition.

The recovery period for the surgery is expected to be more than a month, which rules Bellingham out for a key stretch of games, including the bulk of the Club World Cup, if the operation is performed immediately.

Ultimately, the final decision will come down to whether the club prioritises short-term results or long-term fitness.

Given Bellingham’s growing influence at the heart of the midfield and the investment made in him, both sides will need to reach a compromise. Today’s El Clasico result could very well tip the scale.