Why is Jude Bellingham not playing vs Elche today? Is Real Madrid star injured? Mourinho’s decision explained

Real Madrid are facing Elche away from home on Tuesday with the aim of moving ahead of rivals FC Barcelona in the standings.

However, one key Madrid player was absent from the starting lineup when the game got underway. While Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappe were named in Jose Mourinho’s starting XI, Jude Bellingham was left out of the lineup.

Why is Jude Bellingham not playing?

The English midfielder is on the bench for the match, but the decision does not appear to be related to an injury concern. Instead, it seems to be a strategic move to give the key midfielder some rest.

Bellingham could still feature later in the game, with the midfielder potentially being brought on during the second half.

Mourinho has instead opted for a midfield featuring Arda Guler and Yan Diomande, with Tchouameni and Federico Valverde operating through the center.

Bellingham's stats

The 23-year-old has started every LaLiga game for Los Blancos this season and also featured in their UEFA Champions League fixture against Inter Milan. He has scored three goals and registered two assists across his five LaLiga appearances so far.

Real Madrid starting XI

Thibaut Courtois

Trent Alexander-Arnold, Ibrahima Konaté, Dean Huijsen, Marc Cucurella

Yan Diomandé, Federico Valverde. Aurélien Tchouaméni. Arda Güler