Real Madrid told what they ‘don’t need Jude Bellingham’ doing as Xabi Alonso gets ‘special smell’ advice from Blancos legend

Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham is the subject of tactical advice for new manager Xabi Alonso, specifically regarding his positioning. Despite scoring 23 goals and helping win La Liga and the Champions League in his debut season, Bellingham's output dipped to 15 goals last season. He is currently set for shoulder surgery following the Club World Cup, delaying his return.

Manager Xabi Alonso has indicated plans to deploy Bellingham in a deeper midfield role, focusing on his ball-playing abilities. However, Real Madrid legend Michel Salgado strongly advises against this, arguing Bellingham should be used further forward near the opposition box. Salgado stated he doesn't need Bellingham dropping deep to receive the ball or be heavily involved in the build-up, emphasizing Bellingham's "special smell" for scoring goals in the box.

Salgado believes Alonso will ultimately play Bellingham in a more advanced role, predicting he will be the key player operating behind forwards Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappe. He expects fans will see "a different Bellingham" and "the best version" of the player this season compared to the last.

The article also notes that Bellingham's England teammate Trent Alexander-Arnold has joined Real Madrid this summer, though it remains unclear when both will play together again after the team's Club World Cup semi-final exit.