Put through an emotional ringer over the last few weeks, Real Madrid fans will be relieved for a number of reasons in the aftermath of their 3-0 road victory over Girona on Saturday.
Los Blancos got goals from Jude Bellingham, Arda Guler, and Kylian Mbappe in the comprehensive win, sending them within two points of Barcelona at the top of the La Liga table while also retaining a game in hand on the leaders. It’s a sign of intent from Madrid who have not been at their best of late but are still very much in the thick of the title race as the season nears the halfway point.
Mbappe got a goal to stave off the doubters who were increasing in volume as the France international struggled for consistency at the head of the Madrid attack.
Additionally, the budding relationship between Bellingham and Guler was on full display as the two young stars saw their tight-knit friendship overflow both on the pitch and on the touchline.
On the field, the two celebrated emphatically as Bellingham assisted Guler’s goal to put Madrid 2-0 up on the hour mark, signifying the Turkish star’s first club goal of the season.
There was a bit of worry when Bellingham was substituted off a few minutes later with what appeared to be a possible fitness concern, but manager Carlo Ancelloti allayed those fears following the match. “Jude Bellingham is fine,” Ancelotti said in his post-match press conference, indicating that the England international was simply “tired” and did not have an injury.
When Guler was withdrawn in the 89th minute and went down the bench high-fiving teammates, he was grabbed by Bellingham on the bench and embraced with vigor, pulled in for a hug only reserved for close friends.
Jude Bellingham & Arda Güler. ?? pic.twitter.com/ueluat0xY6
— ??? (@losblancoszone) December 7, 2024
There was even more good news from Ancelotti following the match, as the Italian indicated that Rodrygo would be available for Tuesday’s Champions League match against Atalanta. The Brazilian forward missed the Girona win with a leg injury, leaving an injury-stricken Madrid side to get creative in the attack with Vinicius Jr. also absent.
