Carlo Ancelotti says he is not particularly worried about a potential reoccurrence of a shoulder injury for Jude Bellingham during Real Madrid’s 4-1 win over Espanyol on Saturday night.

Los Blancos cut the gap to La Liga leaders Barcelona – who play on Sunday – to one point thanks to strikes from Dani Carvajal, Rodrygo, Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappe, having gone behind early in the second half after Thibaut Courtois’ own goal.

Bellingham started a second game in a row having missed four league matches and the September international break earlier in the campaign due to a muscle problem, but the 21-year-old was seen struggling with his shoulder during the victory.

However, he was able to play for 83 minutes before being substituted and manager Ancelotti claimed he doesn’t think the issue is too concerning.

He said: “Jude has had the shoulder problem and it has resolved well. He was able to play the whole game without any problem. Let’s see how he does tomorrow, although it doesn’t seem anything particularly worrying.

“He’s always played with protection. A month ago he took it off because he was fine, but he has had this problem again. Tonight it was resolved very well, he did not ask for the change, as he has never had to do before. I don’t think it will be a problem, although it must be taken care of, obviously.”

Bellingham will hope to be available in midweek when Madrid continue their La Liga title defence against Alaves before a capital clash with Atletico Madrid next weekend. They then return to the Champions League with a trip to Lille in early October.

On the result, Ancelotti added: “We started well and reacted well after the 0-1. It was complete. We played better than in other games; with more rhythm and generating more opportunities. I’m happy.”

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