Bellingham takes responsibility as Madrid crash out of Europe

The midfielder, who has emerged as a key figure at the Santiago Bernabeu this season, admitted the team fell short of expectations across both legs of the quarter-final tie.

Real Madrid were unable to overturn a damaging 3-0 defeat from the first leg, drawing a line under a disappointing European campaign. Speaking in a statement on social media, Bellingham acknowledged the weight of the occasion and the importance of the competition to the club's loyal fanbase.

He urged them to stay united as Los Blancos look to salvage the remainder of the season. "There are still things to fight for," he said, echoing the determination that has characterised his performances since arriving in the Spanish capital.

"Simply didn't live up to the expectations of this club in either of the games. We understand how much these nights and this competition mean to you. We'll be back," he concluded.

Despite their European disappointment, Madrid remain firmly in the domestic title race. They sit just four points behind leaders Barcelona with seven La Liga fixtures remaining.

A narrow 1-0 victory over Alaves last weekend, secured despite the setback of a Kylian Mbappe red card, has kept their hopes alive as the run-in begins.