Bellingham eyes Man City showdown after red card setback
The England midfielder was sent off in the first half of Madrid’s 2-2 draw against Osasuna on 15 February, dealing a blow to their domestic title challenge.
Jude Bellingham played a decisive role in Real Madrid's 3-2 victory over Manchester City in their Champions League play-off first leg, but his week took a dramatic turn with a costly red card in La Liga.
The England midfielder was sent off in the first half of Madrid's 2-2 draw against Osasuna on 15 February, dealing a blow to their domestic title challenge. Frustrated by the dismissal, Bellingham insisted it was a misunderstanding with the referee and later apologised to his teammates.
"Enough said about the misunderstanding, just wanted to apologise again for leaving my team-mates in such a tough position and thank the fans for their support and understanding," he wrote on social media. "We'll see each other on Wednesday, (playing) at home."
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Despite his suspension in La Liga, Bellingham will be fresh for Madrid's crucial second leg against City at the Santiago Bernabeu on 19 February. Victory would secure Madrid's place in the last 16 and edge them closer to another European triumph.
Since his move from Borussia Dortmund in 2023, Bellingham has delivered on the biggest occasions. He was instrumental in Madrid's La Liga triumph last season and helped secure their record-extending 15th Champions League title with a crucial assist in the final against his former club.
Bellingham has often risen to the challenge in key matches, scoring vital goals in both league Clasicos last season and in Madrid's encounters with Girona, their main title rivals for much of the campaign. His composed penalty in the Champions League quarter-final shootout against City further highlighted his ability to thrive under pressure.
Although he initially struggled to find the net this season, particularly in a deeper role following Kylian Mbappe's arrival, his scoring touch has returned. Bellingham has 10 goals in his last 20 appearances and provided six assists, with his most recent strike—deep into stoppage time against City—putting Madrid in control of the tie.
His immediate focus will now be on ensuring Madrid complete the job at the Bernabeu, as they look to eliminate Pep Guardiola's side and continue their pursuit of another Champions League crown.
