Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham is set to undergo surgery on his left shoulder in London this week, according to reports.
The England international is expected to be out of action for approximately 10 to 12 weeks, ruling him out for a significant portion of the early 2025/26 campaign.
Bellingham, 22, has been dealing with a persistent shoulder issue that dates back to November 2023, when he suffered a dislocation during a LaLiga clash with Rayo Vallecano.
Despite the injury, he opted for a non-surgical rehabilitation programme in order to remain available for selection during a crucial stretch of the season for Madrid.
That decision ultimately meant he never fully recovered from the problem. The midfielder, who started in every game of Real Madrid’s Club World Cup campaign last month, confirmed he would undergo surgery following their 3-1 win over Pachuca.
“I’ll have the surgery done after the tournament,” he said. “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.”
🚨 Jude Bellingham is set to undergo the long-awaited surgery on his shoulder today, @Diaries report 🤕
It will keep him sidelined until October 💔 pic.twitter.com/kZJeRUwu8Q
— OneFootball (@OneFootball) July 15, 2025
Bellingham enjoyed a stellar debut season after arriving from Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2023. He played a vital role in Madrid’s LaLiga and Champions League double, contributing 15 goals and 15 assists across 58 appearances in all competitions.
Madrid begin the new LaLiga season under new head coach Xabi Alonso on August 19, when they host Osasuna at the Santiago Bernabeu.
However, they will have to navigate the early fixtures – and the opening phase of their Champions League defence – without one of their key men.
Bellingham is targeting a return in early October, which means he could miss up to eight league matches and several important European ties.
His recovery will be closely monitored by both club and country, with England also keeping a watchful eye as they prepare for autumn internationals and the 2026 World Cup.
