Bayern Munich boss Thomas Tuchel hailed Jude Bellingham’s ability to handle the pressure of playing for Real Madrid ahead of the sides’ Champions League semi-final, first leg tomorrow night.
Bellingham, who joined Madrid from Bayern’s Bundesliga rivals Borussia Dortmund last summer, has been a revelation in the Spanish capital. He’s scored 17 goals from an advanced midfield role, including injury-time winners in both games against Barcelona.
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Tuchel has been impressed with how Bellingham has adapted to life in Spain.
He said: “Jude is extraordinary. He was fantastic here in the Bundesliga, how he progressed shows the level of personality he has, it’s only possible with a huge personality.
“Everyone who plays for Madrid plays with the pressure of the shirt. He plays with the pressure to play with this club and all the expectations.
“He handles it like he’s never done anything else. But we are well aware of it and will try and find solutions tomorrow.”
Madrid are 14-time winners of European club football’s biggest prize and carry a reputation for being able to ‘get it done’, as evidenced by their quarter-final penalty-shoot-out win over holders Manchester City.
Tuchel added: “When you’re playing against Real Madrid, you’re also up against the aura, the legend that surrounds them. Our focus will be fully on the game. We’re all looking forward to a great match.”
🎙️ Tuchel on the squad: “As of right now, nothing is 100% certain. Konrad Laimer, Matthijs de Ligt and Dayot Upamecano will undergo some final checks soon. Things look good for Konni. We also need to wait and see with Jamal Musiala and Leroy Sané.” #packmas #FCBRMA pic.twitter.com/3K0AaGt0n8
— FC Bayern Munich (@FCBayernEN) April 29, 2024
Bayern have had a disappointing domestic season, relinquishing the Bundesliga title to Bayer Leverkusen having won it for 11 straight years, and Tuchel will depart at the end of the current campaign.
It means all focus is on the Madrid tie, but the former Chelsea boss knows a clear approach will be required against Carlo Ancelotti’s men.
He said: “You can achieve a lot with tactics. The approach is the car, and the players have to drive it. We need to find a good balance and moments where we have the right solutions.”
Bayern have their injury problems ahead of the game with Konrad Laimer, Matthijs de Ligt, Dayot Upamecano, Jamal Musiala and Leroy Sané all doubts.
