Since joining German club Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2020, Jude Bellingham has enjoyed a spectacular rise to the top. The young Englishman has already become a fan favourite with the Westphalians, made UEFA Champions League appearances, and has been linked with some of the biggest teams in Europe, such as Real Madrid. But is a move to Madrid too soon for Bellingham? With the pressure mounting on the 17-year-old, it’s time to take a closer look at whether the midfielder is ready for the challenge of playing for the reigning Spanish champions.
1. Introducing Jude Bellingham – Is He Ready for Madrid?
A Stand-out Talent
Jude Bellingham is an up-and-coming young talent not many football fans outside the U.K. will know of yet, but he is certainly one to watch. The 17-year-old midfielder currently plays for Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund, and is highly thought of by those in the know.
Despite his youth, Bellingham has already broken quite a few records. He became the youngest ever to play in the Championship during an earlier stint at Birmingham City, the youngest player to appear for Dortmund, and the youngest Englishman to score for a Bundesliga club at just 17 years and 10 days old. He also earned his first England cap at the age of 17.
Will He Make His Mark at Madrid?
Having said that, many questions remain – can Bellingham make the jump to top football, and is he ready to compete with the cream of the crop at Madrid?
On one hand, he possesses many of the skills necessary in a top-level midfielder- pace, passing accuracy, skill, and poise on the ball. On the other hand, Bellingham may still be too young compared to more experienced players, with a lack of experience likely to be the Achilles’ heel for any newcomers.
Given his undeniable talent, and with the right environment, Bellingham can definitely go on to become a star. If Madrid do decide to sign him, they will be getting a potentially great player who can bring both an offensive edge and defensive solidity to their midfield. Time will tell whether Bellingham can realise his potential and live up to the hype.
2. Examining Bellingham’s Rise to Superstardom
Bellingham’s transformation from unknown singer-songwriter to superstar was almost overnight. Here are the highlights of their meteoric rise:
- Their first album, Songs of the Summer Sun, was released in early 2017
- It was met with immediate success, topping the charts of alternative and folk music
- The music video for their single, ‘Fade Away’, went viral on the internet, amassing millions of views
- Several world tours followed, boosting the notoriety of Bellingham
The singer-songwriter went on to feature in several movies, showcasing their acting and vocal talents. They also won numerous awards, including several Grammy Awards. Almost two years since their first album was released, Bellingham’s name is now an instantly recognizable one, and their music a global phenomenon.
3. What Could Bellingham Bring To Real Madrid?
Goalscoring Hero
Bellingham might be just what Real Madrid need to add the missing finishing touch to their team. As one of the most ambitious and attacking sides in Spain, Madrid have looked a bit short of goals in recent seasons. Bellingham offers a great combination of commanding physical presence and eye for goal, built on his impressive goal scoring record with Birmingham City.
Tactical Versatility
Bellingham definitely has the raw ability to make an impact at the highest level and his tactical versatility, so often underrated in players of his age, could be very useful to Madrid. He has already proven his proficiency as a 6, 8 and 10 in the middle of the park, always looking to create chances for himself and others. His ability to thread penetrating passes through the opposition defense and score crucial goals could be a huge asset to Real Madrid.
4. Is A Move To Madrid Inevitable for Bellingham?
Madrid has long been a cultural epicenter of Europe, teeming with remarkable art, sophisticated style, and historic architecture. Of course, a city of this magnitude has suited its appeal to the attention of people everywhere, and possesses enough charm to entice and lure even the most distant travelers far and wide. As such, it’s no surprise that Bellingham, Washington resident John Mills is considering making a move to Madrid.
As exotic as a change of scenery may be, the question remains whether Mills is ready for such a substantial lifestyle shift. On the one hand, living in Madrid comes with certain comforts and advantages that exist beyond the standard amenities offered in a traditional American city. With impeccable public transportation, a vibrant nightlife scene, and a population filled with an array of expressive cultures, Madrid would definitely bring an element of excitement to Mills life. On the other, making the journey to Spain could be more difficult than one would think. Finding a place to live, mastering the Spanish language, and acclimating to a brand new way of life could be difficult obstacles to overcome.
Jude Bellingham’s potential is seemingly limitless. With the guidance and support from his club, Borussia Dortmund, the 17-year-old has all the tools to take his talents to the highest levels of football possible – and that may just mean a move to the biggest club in the world, Real Madrid. There is no telling what his future holds, but whatever he chooses, his move could be the start of something truly special.