Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso praised Jude Bellingham after the England midfielder delivered another match-winning display, scoring the decisive goal in Madrid’s 2-1 victory over Barcelona in Sunday’s El Clasico.
Bellingham, who also assisted Kylian Mbappé’s opener, capped off an outstanding week in which he netted the winner against Juventus in the Champions League, reaffirming his influence following a return from shoulder surgery earlier this season.
The 22-year-old missed several weeks to undergo an operation addressing a long-term shoulder issue and was not included in England’s October squad by Thomas Tuchel. Since his return, however, his form has rapidly improved.
“We saw it against Juventus, today, and even last weekend against Getafe — three excellent performances in a row,” Alonso told reporters. “At first, he needed minutes to find rhythm, but he’s come back even stronger than we expected after the last international break. Jude thrives on emotion, connection, and rhythm — and that’s showing in his performances.”
Bellingham’s strike marked his first goal at the Santiago Bernabéu since April and extended Madrid’s lead over defending champions Barcelona to five points at the top of LaLiga.
The buildup to the clash had been clouded by remarks from Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal, who accused Madrid of “stealing” and “complaining.” Alonso, however, dismissed suggestions that his team required any extra motivation.
“The players were already very focused,” he said. “We discussed the importance of this match not only for the three points, but for what it meant to us — regaining belief and proving we can win big games again. I’m delighted for the players because they needed this feeling.”
Madrid, who had three goals disallowed for offside, looked the sharper side throughout, delivering a controlled and confident performance in Alonso’s first Clasico as manager.
Vinícius Júnior impressed with his energy and creativity, though his visible frustration when substituted drew attention post-match. Alonso downplayed the incident, focusing instead on the team’s overall display.
“I don’t want to lose focus on what really matters,” he said. “Vini gave everything, just like the rest of the squad. This was an important win — and it could easily have been by a bigger margin.”
With Bellingham back to full fitness and Madrid showing renewed composure under Alonso, Los Blancos appear to have rediscovered the balance and drive that make them early favourites in both domestic and European competition.
