Jude Bellingham Named on Bench for Real Madrid's Champions League Trip to Olympiacos

Real Madrid prioritize a more physical midfield, listing Bellingham as a substitute.

Overview

Real Madrid released the lineup roughly an hour before kickoff in Athens, confirming Bellingham among the substitutes.
Federico Valverde, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Eduardo Camavinga and Arda Güler start in midfield in a setup focused on work rate and strength.
World Soccer Talk reports the decision as a tactical call by Xabi Alonso, with Bellingham available off the bench.
MARCA, via Yahoo Sports, had reported a calf overload for Bellingham and indicated a precautionary bench role despite no formal injury.
The squad is handling multiple knocks to other players, and reports suggest Bellingham is aiming to be fully ready for the weekend match against Girona.