Jude Bellingham Shines Again at Real Madrid Following World Cup Success
Jude Bellingham is showing the same impressive form for Real Madrid that he displayed during the 2026 World Cup, where he was one of the tournament's standout players. After a challenging 2025-26 season, the English midfielder is back in top shape under new coach Jose Mourinho.
A Difficult Season Behind Him
The previous campaign was tough for Bellingham. He missed pre-season due to shoulder surgery and was deployed in a defensive midfield role by former manager Xabi Alonso, which limited his impact. Alonso was replaced by Alvaro Arbeloa, but the team's performance continued to decline. Bellingham ended the season with eight goals and five assists in 40 appearances—his lowest output in Spain so far—and faced criticism about his starting spot for England at the World Cup.
Despite doubts, Bellingham remained focused, playing a crucial role in England’s journey to the World Cup semi-finals. Many considered him the fourth-best player in the tournament after Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, and Golden Ball winner Rodri.
Strong Start Under Mourinho
Since Mourinho took charge, Bellingham has quickly become a key figure. With only a week of training before the season opener against Espanyol, he scored a header within nine minutes and maintained high energy and precision throughout the match. His stats from that game include:
- Ground duels won: 5
- Pass completion rate: 95%
- Minutes played: 80
Although Madrid struggled overall in that game, Bellingham’s performance stood out.
Dominant Display Against Real Sociedad
In a 4-1 victory over Real Sociedad, Mbappe stole the headlines with a hat-trick, but Bellingham was vital too. He assisted twice, one being a slick give-and-go leading to Mbappe's goal, and battled hard defensively to regain possession multiple times. His work rate was exceptional:
- Ground duels won: 9 of 14
- Recoveries: 4
- Distance covered: Almost 9 km
He left the pitch to applause in the 77th minute, showing the same relentless energy he had for England at the World Cup.
Driving Force Versus Malaga
Before the match against Malaga, Mourinho praised Bellingham as an essential player for the team. In that game, Bellingham showed off his freedom on the field by scoring a composed goal after beating three defenders and later forcing an own goal by putting pressure on the goalkeeper. Madrid won 4-0, with Bellingham also hitting the post and receiving cheers from fans who sang "Hey Jude" as he was substituted late on.
Mourinho’s Tactical Shift Unlocks Bellingham
Mourinho has adapted Bellingham’s role, allowing him more attacking freedom than under Alonso. The coach prefers a 4-2-3-1 formation similar to Thomas Tuchel’s, positioning Bellingham closer to goal instead of having him cover wide defensive areas. Mourinho explained:
"Bellingham sometimes defended like a second left-back last season. I told him I do not want to see that anymore. I made a deal with him."
This approach lets Bellingham support the attack alongside Mbappe and Vinicius Junior while still contributing defensively. Mourinho believes their quality and understanding make the trio very effective together.
Ballon d'Or Prospects
Despite Mourinho calling Bellingham a leader and a contender for the Ballon d’Or, this year may be tough. Madrid’s trophyless 2025-26 season and stiff competition from players like Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal, Lionel Messi, Michael Olise, and Rodri make it unlikely he will claim the award now. Mbappe remains the stronger candidate due to his 42 goals last season, though even he is considered an outsider.
Looking ahead, if Bellingham maintains this current form, 2027 could tell a different story. He has already contributed to four goals this season and could surpass his debut year at Madrid when he scored 23 goals and provided 13 assists during a double-winning campaign.
Back in 2024, Bellingham finished third in the Ballon d’Or voting behind Vinicius and Rodri. Despite setbacks, he has grown into a more complete player within a stronger Madrid squad. Outperforming Mbappe and Vinicius over the next months won't be easy, but Bellingham seems without limits. Winning the Ballon d’Or might well be the next step for this generational talent.
