
Tensions appear to be running high at Real Madrid ahead of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final second leg against Arsenal, with reports from the UK Mirror suggesting Jude Bellingham and Antonio Rüdiger were involved in a heated altercation during training.
The incident reportedly took place during a small-sided game at the club’s training ground, where a strong tackle by Rüdiger sparked an angry reaction from Bellingham. The confrontation escalated to the point where teammates and staff were forced to intervene and separate the pair.
The timing of the bust-up is particularly concerning for manager Carlo Ancelotti, as it comes just days before a pivotal European tie. Real Madrid were soundly beaten 3-0 in the first leg of the quarter-final and now face an uphill task in the return fixture as they seek to mount a famous comeback and secure a place in the semi-finals, where either Aston Villa or Paris Saint-Germain await.
The clash also occurred just prior to Los Blancos’ domestic fixture against Deportivo Alavés, a crucial match in their pursuit of the LaLiga title.
While training ground disagreements are not uncommon in high-pressure environments, the altercation underlines the intensity and urgency within the Real Madrid camp as they prepare for one of the most important weeks of their season.