Bellingham calls potential Champions League exit a “disaster” as Real Madrid face Bayern in season-defining quarter-final

Bellingham calls potential Champions League exit a “disaster” as Real Madrid face Bayern in season-defining quarter-final

Jude Bellingham has said a Champions League exit for Real Madrid would represent a disaster.

Real Madrid travel to Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals this evening, requiring a turnaround to reach the last four. Alvaro Arbeloa's side were beaten 2-1 at the Bernabeu in the first meeting, leaving them with a sizeable task in Germany.

Bayern have lost just once at home all season, and Bellingham has admitted that tonight's tie is a final for his team.

He said any elimination from Europe should be deemed a 'disaster' for a Real Madrid side with record-breaking history in this competition.

“Any defeat in theChampions League is a disaster; given the situation we’re in, it’s a final," he said ahead of tonight's clash.

"We’ve got a lot at stake and we must play well. It’s all or nothing; that’s our mindset. We’re not going to hide. We want to believe; we don’t have any more chances. We have to play and win.”

Real Madrid are fighting to avoid a season without silverware. Los Blancos are nine points behind Barcelona in theLa Liga title race, following a 1-1 draw with Girona last Friday.

Bellingham has admitted that the team's performances have not been good enough to keep pace with the league leaders. He added that tonight's tie with Bayern carries even more significance given their domestic situation.

Speaking on Tuesday, he was asked about a challenging campaign: “It’s complicated; it’s not the right time or place to discuss it. In the league, at least at home, we’ve dropped too many points.

"You can’t win the league by dropping so many points when you compete against Barcelona. And away from home too. It’s just not possible. I don’t think the fight is over. We’re behind, but we have to focus on tomorrow. It’s a big day.”