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Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said on Monday that midfielders Jude Bellingham and Aurelien Tchouameni have returned from injury as Los Blancos begin their defence of their Champions League trophy.

The record holder, who has won 15 times and is now the holder, will play German side Stuttgart at the Santiago Bernabeu on Tuesday and will see the return of England international Bellingham and Frenchman Tchouameni.

Defender Eder Militao did not train on Monday, but Ancelotti said the Brazilian is also ready for the match.

“Bellingham is good, as is Tchouameni, and also Militao for tomorrow, who did not train today because he still had a day to recover,” said Ancelotti.

“Two important players are back, but we are also unlucky to have lost another important player (Brahim Diaz).”

Bellingham, who started the season in a deeper midfield role than last season, suffered a calf injury in August that saw him miss four La Liga games.

“(His return) is fantastic news because of what he brings to the table on the football pitch and beyond,” said Dani Carvajal.

“It’s great to see him back in the squad, we’re counting on him.”

The midfielder was crucial last season on his way to the Wembley final, in which Madrid defeated his old club Borussia Dortmund.

Ancelotti said his team was just as keen to win the league this year.

“We are excited as always about what this competition will bring us, as this club has been a protagonist for so long and continues to be so,” Ancelotti added.

“The Champions League is special for Real Madrid, we will try to fight until the end.”