Real Madrid must host Atlético Madrid in the first leg of the Champions League round of 16 without their best playmaker, Jude Bellingham.

Real Madrid hosts Atletico at the Santiago Bernabeu in the last 16 first leg, with the return at the Metropolitano stadium across town on March 12.

Jude Bellingham is revered as one of the best midfielders in world football and has become a superstar following his move to Real Madrid in 2023.

Brahim Diaz has become increasingly more prominent at Real Madrid, having been decisive on the pitch – most recently during the Madrid derby earlier this week, during which

Jude Bellingham did not train with the rest of the squad ahead of a busy week for Real Madrid, sparking injury concerns.

A claim made by Bellingham after Madrid's Champions League win against Man City shows how valued Rodrygo is - but it's no surprise

Jude Bellingham will not be playing for Real Madrid against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League as he is serving a suspension. The huge Madrid derby comes at the last 16 of this season’s Champions League after Real knocked Manchester City out in the knockout play-off round.

Real Madrid might be favorites both for their Champions League round of 16 tie against crosstown rivals Atletico Madrid but also for the competition as a whole. However, their next step towards the final in late May will surely be all the harder without Jude Bellingham.