Real Madrid’s Arbeloa Reportedly Decides Jude Bellingham’s Role vs Bayern Munich in Champions League

Álvaro Arbeloa will reportedly leave Jude Bellingham on the bench for Real Madrid’s Champions League quarterfinal first leg against Bayern Munich, according to Iván Martín in OK Diario. The English midfielder, still short of full fitness after two recent substitute appearances, is expected to be replaced by Arda Güler at left interior, with Thiago Pitarch anchoring midfield alongside Aurélien Tchouaméni.

Bellingham’s diminished influence—no longer the playmaker or goal threat he was earlier in the season—has seen him drop out of Arbeloa’s preferred XI, competing instead with Federico Valverde and Güler for minutes. The coach’s lineup choice mirrors the tactical blueprint that twice defeated Manchester City, and leaves Bellingham fighting to regain form as a second-half option.

Arbeloa’s own future at Madrid hinges on the tie’s outcome following last weekend’s loss to Mallorca, while Bayern could welcome back Manuel Neuer and three teammates, though Harry Kane remains doubtful.