Why is Jude Bellingham not playing for Real Madrid vs. Osasuna in 2025-26 La Liga debut?

Real Madrid kick off their 2025-26 season against Osasuna on Matchday 1 of La Liga, with Los Blancos once again seen as title contenders alongside FC Barcelona. But when the lineups were announced, Jude Bellingham’s absence immediately caught fans’ attention.

Since arriving in 2023, Bellingham has quickly established himself as one of Madrid’s biggest stars, covering multiple roles in midfield despite his natural position. His last appearance came on July 9 against Paris Saint-Germain in the FIFA Club World Cup, and now the club will have to move forward without him for the start of the campaign.

Jude Bellingham is sidelined for the game against Osasuna as he continues recovering from his shoulder surgery. The midfielder had played through pain for much of last season but decided to undergo the procedure only after Madrid’s Club World Cup run. He is now in full rehabilitation.

Following the second CWC game against Pachuca, Bellingham explained his decision. “I’ll have the surgery done after the tournament. I’m sick of playing with the brace, especially in the heat. It will be nice to have my old shoulder back so I’m really looking forward to it,” he told reporters after the 3-1 win.

For the Osasuna match, head coach Xabi Alonso named a midfield trio of Federico Valverde, Aurrlien Tchouameni, and Arda Guler. While Bellingham works his way back, Alonso will be forced to navigate the opening weeks of the season without one of his most important players.

When is Bellingham expected to return?

Though the surgery was completed in mid-July, a return is not imminent. According to Diario AS, Bellingham will be out until at least the end of October. The nature of the shoulder injury requires extended rest and careful management.

That timeline means the England star will miss the opening stretch of La Liga, the early rounds of the UEFA Champions League, and England’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers. Depending on his recovery and Alonso’s options in midfield, Bellingham will need to wait a while longer before regaining full fitness.