Real Madrid Star Faces Race Against Time as Injury Threatens Olympiacos Showdown

Real Madrid's midfield star Jude Bellingham is questionable for the Spanish club's Champions League clash against Olympiacos.

The English player took part in practice sessions leading up to the fixture and traveled to Greece alongside Los Blancos, appearing unaffected by the injury problems plaguing the squad. However, mere hours before kickoff at Karaiskakis Stadium, Bellingham must undergo a last-minute fitness assessment.

MARCA indicates the 22-year-old is dealing with a slight calf problem that casts doubt on his inclusion in Xabi Alonso's starting lineup. Bellingham is "in danger" of sustaining a more serious injury should he aggravate the condition during Wednesday's match.

Alonso may consequently choose to be cautious with his top midfielder and start him on the substitutes' bench. Missing Bellingham in any form represents a significant setback for an injury-plagued Real Madrid squad already missing Thibaut Courtois, Dean Huijsen, Éder Militão, Antonio Rüdiger, David Alaba, Dani Carvajal and Franco Mastantuono.

Additionally, the former Borussia Dortmund player has contributed six goals and assists across his previous six outings for Los Blancos, frequently emerging as a standout performer during the club's recent run of disappointing outcomes.

Alonso Seeks to Guide Real Madrid to Champions League Breakthrough

Even should Bellingham become the eighth player unavailable for the Olympiacos encounter, Alonso will remain under pressure to secure a Real Madrid triumph. The 15-time European champions have faltered in their previous three fixtures, losing to Liverpool before drawing with both Rayo Vallecano and Elche.

These concerning outcomes have raised questions about Alonso's position, particularly as friction between the manager and Vinicius Junior appears to intensify; the Brazilian allegedly postponed his contract negotiations due to his deteriorating relationship with Carlo Ancelotti's replacement.

The burden on Alonso intensifies when considering Los Blancos' historical record in Greece—the 15-time Champions League victors have never secured a victory on Greek territory against any opponent.

A triumph over Olympiacos won't silence the criticism surrounding the Spanish manager and Real Madrid, but it would provide temporary relief and enhance the club's prospects of securing a top-eight finish in the league phase, ensuring direct qualification to the round of 16.