Bellingham Returns to Real Madrid Starting XI, but Struggles Continue in Draw with Girona

The English midfielder's first start since February was not enough to spark a reaction from the struggling Spanish giants.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 10:20pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist-style painting depicting a soccer match between Real Madrid and Girona, with the players and ball rendered as abstracted, overlapping geometric shapes in shades of white, gray, blue, and red.A cubist interpretation of the hard-fought draw between Real Madrid and Girona, with the players' movements and the ball's trajectory fractured into a dynamic, geometric composition.New Haven Today

Jude Bellingham made his first start for Real Madrid since February 1st, but the English midfielder's return to the starting lineup was not enough to lift the struggling Spanish giants, who were held to a 1-1 draw by Girona on Friday.

Why it matters

Bellingham's return to the starting XI was seen as a potential boost for Real Madrid, who have struggled with consistency this season and are in danger of falling further behind rivals Barcelona in the La Liga title race. The draw against Girona extends Real's winless run to three matches, raising more questions about the team's form and ability to mount a serious challenge for the league title.

The details

Bellingham was making his first start for Real Madrid since February 1st, when he was substituted at halftime in a 1-0 loss to Mallorca. The 19-year-old English midfielder has been a key player for Real this season, but has also dealt with injury issues that have limited his playing time. Against Girona, Bellingham played the full 90 minutes but was unable to inspire his team to victory, as Real were held to a 1-1 draw at the Santiago Bernabeu.

  • Bellingham's last start for Real Madrid was on February 1st.
  • The draw against Girona on April 10, 2026 extended Real's winless run to three matches.

The players

Jude Bellingham

A 19-year-old English midfielder who has been a key player for Real Madrid this season, but has dealt with injury issues that have limited his playing time.

Real Madrid

The Spanish football club that plays in La Liga, the top division of Spanish professional football.

Girona

The Spanish football club that plays in La Liga, the top division of Spanish professional football.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We're disappointed with the result, but we'll keep working hard to turn things around.”

— Carlo Ancelotti, Real Madrid Manager

What’s next

Real Madrid will look to bounce back from the draw when they face Barcelona in the next El Clasico match on April 20th.

The takeaway

Bellingham's return to the starting lineup was not enough to spark a much-needed win for Real Madrid, who continue to struggle with consistency this season. The draw against Girona raises further questions about the team's ability to mount a serious challenge for the La Liga title.