Jude Bellingham and Trent Alexander-Arnold Excluded from Real Madrid’s 2026 Calendar

Both Jude Bellingham and Trent Alexander-Arnold have been surprisingly omitted from Real Madrid’s official calendar for 2026. Despite Bellingham’s prominent presence on the cover of the 2025 edition, he is absent for the upcoming year. Similarly, Alexander-Arnold, who joined the club well before some of his peers like Alvaro Carreras, is also not featured.

The calendar, priced at £10.99 and available for pre-order, showcases stars such as Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr., Thibaut Courtois, and Huijsen, but notably excludes the two England internationals. Fans hoping for young players’ inclusion will be disappointed.

Recent months have been challenging for both players. Bellingham underwent shoulder surgery in July, which initially occurred in October 2023, keeping him out of action until September. Despite returning to play, he has faced criticism for fitness issues and was part of a heavy 5-2 defeat to Atletico Madrid, their worst derby loss in 75 years.

Further complicating matters, Bellingham was left out of the recent international squad by coach Thomas Tuchel, who cited strong team cohesion without him. Tuchel emphasized that the team’s spirit was at its peak and that performance would determine future selection, highlighting Bellingham’s status as a “special player” who requires “special rules.”

Concerning his fitness, it is noted that Bellingham has not yet reached full match rhythm, having only just completed a full game. Tuchel assured there are no issues from the club side, and that Bellingham is gradually regaining full strength.

As for Alexander-Arnold, he continues to struggle for a consistent starting role, competing with club captain Carvajal. He has been sidelined with a hamstring injury since mid-September and may miss his next reunion with Liverpool at Anfield on November 4.