Jude Bellingham, the 22-year-old Real Madrid midfielder, is making headlines not for his on-field prowess but for his off-field activities. Despite undergoing shoulder surgery in July 2025 and being sidelined with a recovery timeline extending to mid-October—or potentially November—the England star was spotted enjoying a beach holiday in Sardinia with his girlfriend, Ashlyn Castro, 27. This comes as his England teammates prepare for a crucial match against Serbia on Tuesday night, raising questions about his commitment to recovery.

Shoulder Injury and Surgery Details

Bellingham has been out of action since dislocating his shoulder during a LaLiga match against Rayo Vallecano in November 2023. After delaying surgery and playing through pain with heavy strapping, he finally underwent a successful operation in London. A visible scar running up his shoulder, shared via Instagram, highlights the procedure’s scale. His post-surgery message thanked the medical team and expressed optimism about his recovery, but his recent beach antics suggest a different focus.

Beach Holiday Amid Recovery

On Friday, Bellingham and Castro were seen packing on the PDA, larking in the sea, and sharing intimate moments on a sun lounger. While his teammates trained rigorously, Bellingham opted for downtime, sporting blue swimshorts and showcasing his abs. Castro, glamorous in a blue bikini and denim skirt, complemented the romantic escape. The couple, who went public in February, appeared happier than ever despite past controversies surrounding Castro’s personal life.

Recovery Timeline at Risk?

Medical experts estimate a three-to-four-month rehabilitation period. If recovery stretches to November, Bellingham could miss key matches, including Real Madrid’s early LaLiga and Champions League games. His beach holiday, just weeks after surgery, has sparked debate about whether he’s jeopardizing his return. Fans and analysts wonder if this break could delay his mid-October comeback, especially with England’s World Cup qualifiers looming.

Since going public, Bellingham and Castro have faced scrutiny. Past rumors linking her to celebrities like Michael B. Jordan and Lewis Hamilton, along with an escort site hoax, led to a four-month social media hiatus for Castro. She addressed these falsehoods in an emotional TikTok video, clarifying her dating history. Recent outings, including watching matches with Bellingham’s mother Denise, suggest a strengthening bond despite initial tensions.

Should Bellingham Rest More?

While Bellingham enjoys quality time with Castro, the question remains: is this the right time for a holiday? His England teammates’ dedication contrasts with his leisure, fueling speculation about his recovery focus. As the Serbia match approaches, all eyes will be on whether this break impacts his long-term fitness.