Jude Bellingham enjoys 'really special' Real Madrid debut after scoring in win at Bilbao

Jude Bellingham drew praise from teammates and his manager after scoring on his Real Madrid debut in the 2-0 La Liga win at Athletic Bilbao on Saturday.

Despite concerns at both ends of the pitch, Carlo Ancelotti's side earned a convincing victory at the San Mames to kick off their title bid, with Rodrygo opening the scoring in the 28th minute. Bellingham, a €103 million summer signing from Borussia Dortmund, then doubled Madrid's lead eight minutes later.

"It's really special, the most important thing is the win," Bellingham told Real Madrid TV.

Madrid entered the new season with potential issues both in goal and attack. Talismanic striker Karim Benzema left the club for Saudi champions Al Ittihad, while No 1 goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is set to miss most of the season after suffering a a cruciate ligament injury.

So far, neither key player has been replaced as Madrid continue their long pursuit of Paris Saint-Germain star Kylian Mbappe and options are being evaluated to cover Courtois' absence, including a loan deal for Chelsea stopper Kepa Arrizabalaga.

Still, Madrid impressed with Brazilian duo Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo working well as a strike duo, with Bellingham in the No 10 role at the tip of a diamond midfield offering ample support.

Ancelotti, who will take over the Brazil national team at the end of this campaign, handed defender Fran Garcia his second Madrid debut after his return from Rayo Vallecano.

However, it was Bellingham's name that stood out and the 20-year-old midfielder demonstrated why Madrid made him their marquee summer signing.

"I'm very happy to play with (Bellingham), he's a great player, and I'm sure he'll help us a lot this season," said Rodrygo.

Ancelotti also hailed the England