Jude Bellingham has been labelled “arrogant” but in a “good way” by Alan Shearer who has been amazed by his form at Real Madrid.
- Bellingham had sensational debut season at Real Madrid
- One of the frontrunners for the Ballon d’Or
- Shearer impressed with his skills both on and off the pitch
WHAT HAPPENED?
Bellingham’s transition from Borussia Dortmund to one of the world’s most prestigious clubs has been remarkable, with the 20-year-old Englishman securing La Liga and Champions League titles in his debut season in the Spanish capital. The hefty price tag did not seem to weigh him down, as he quickly adapted to the pressures and expectations of playing for Los Blancos. His performances on the pitch have been consistently impressive as he ended up with 23 goals and 12 assists across all competitions for Carlo Ancelotti and Co.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
As a key player in Gareth Southgate’s England squad, Bellingham is poised to play a crucial role at the upcoming Euro 2024 in Germany. And an impressive showing with the Three Lions will make him one of the firm contenders for the Ballon d’Or.
WHAT SHEARER SAID
Speaking to Betfair, Shearer could not contain his admiration for Bellingham and stated: “He’s phenomenal. You can’t be anything but hugely impressed because of his stature. He’s got an arrogance in a good way, I’m not saying that in a disrespectful way; to be a top player, you need to have that something about you, and he has got that.”
The former England striker further emphasized how seamlessly Bellingham has integrated into Real Madrid, a club known for its high standards and intense media scrutiny.
“We all knew he was a great talent, but the way he has gone into one of, if not the, biggest club in the world and taken it on as if it’s just a walk in the park or a game in the street, he’s playing at the biggest club, it’s phenomenal,” Shearer added.
“Where he also impresses is the way he handles the media side of things. Fairly or unfairly, you’re expected, and it’s a duty of you as an England player to go out and speak to the media, and it’s the same when you’re a Real Madrid player. Not everyone is as eloquent as what you’d want them to be, but the way he handles the questions and the way he handles everything that is thrown at him is so impressive.”
DID YOU KNOW?
With a combination of skill, maturity, and an unyielding drive to succeed, Bellingham embodies the qualities of a future footballing great. Euro 2024 will mark his third major tournament with England, a testament to his rapid rise and consistent performances at the highest level – as he is still only 20 years old.
WHAT NEXT FOR BELLINGHAM?
Bellingham will make his return to the pitch for England in their Euro 2024 opener against Serbia on June 16 at the Veltins Arena in Gelsenkirchen. Expectations are high for the Three Lions, and much of their success will hinge on Bellingham’s ability to dictate play from the midfield.