Jude Bellingham Shines Again at Real Madrid After Strong World Cup Showing

Jude Bellingham is back to displaying the talent that made him a Ballon d'Or contender in 2024, continuing his impressive run following the World Cup. The dynamic midfielder is thriving once more at Real Madrid, now under the guidance of José Mourinho.

Challenges in 2025-26 Season

The 2025-26 season proved difficult for Bellingham. He missed pre-season with Xabi Alonso due to shoulder surgery and was played in a defensive midfield role upon his late September return, which limited his influence on the pitch. Alonso was dismissed mid-season as results worsened, and his successor Alvaro Arbeloa couldn't stop Madrid’s decline. Bellingham ended with eight goals and five assists in 40 games — his lowest output in Spain so far — leading some to question his starting spot for England at the 2026 World Cup.

Despite criticism, Bellingham stayed focused. He led England to the World Cup semi-finals, ranking as one of the tournament's top players behind Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Golden Ball winner Rodri.

A Fresh Start with Mourinho

Back at Real Madrid with Mourinho taking charge again, Bellingham looks sharper than ever. Doubts about his peak form are fading fast as he helps Madrid aim for major trophies once more.

Strong Opening Performances

Mourinho had just a week to work with Bellingham before the season started, yet the midfielder made an immediate impact against Espanyol by scoring within nine minutes with a header from an Arda Güler free-kick. Though Madrid struggled afterward, Bellingham stood out, winning duels and completing 95 percent of his passes. He nearly scored again when a header hit the crossbar.

Key Role Against Real Sociedad

In a 4-1 win over Real Sociedad, Mbappé stole the headlines with a hat-trick, but Bellingham’s influence was clear. He assisted two goals, including one for Mbappé after a quick give-and-go, and battled hard to regain possession. His relentless work rate saw him win nine out of 14 ground duels, recover four balls, and cover nearly nine kilometers before being substituted to applause.

Dominant Display Versus Malaga

Mourinho described Bellingham as "a unique player, super-important for the team." Against Malaga, he broke through defenders to score a composed goal, then forced an own goal with a strong header. Madrid won 4-0, with Bellingham also hitting the post and earning cheers from fans singing "Hey Jude" as he left the field near the end.

"I feel more free right now. I have more freedom to move, to go up and down the pitch, depending on what we need," said Bellingham after the match. "I’m having a lot of fun and that’s why I’m performing well."

Mourinho’s Tactical Shift

Mourinho has shifted Bellingham’s role to unlock his attacking potential, inspired by how Thomas Tuchel used him at the World Cup. Instead of defending like a second left-back as last season, Bellingham is now positioned closer to goal in a 4-2-3-1 setup, allowing him to contribute offensively while still pressing opponents.

"I told him I do not want to see that defensive role anymore. I made a deal with him," Mourinho explained. "To get the maximum out of Bellingham, he needs to be close to goal - it’s not rocket science."

This approach lets Bellingham join forces with Mbappé and Vinicius Jr., forming a potent attacking trio while all forwards share defensive duties. Mourinho praised their chemistry, rejecting rumors of incompatibility among the stars.

Ballon d’Or Prospects

Despite Mourinho calling Bellingham a leader and part of the Ballon d’Or race, his chances for the 2026 award appear slim. Madrid’s trophyless 2025-26 season hurts his case, and other candidates like Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal, Lionel Messi, Michael Olise, and Rodri seem ahead in the competition. Even Mbappé, with 42 goals last year, is considered an outsider for the prize.

Bellingham’s 2027 could tell a different story if he maintains this form. Already involved in four goals this season, he aims to surpass his debut Real Madrid campaign where he scored 23 times and assisted 13 as Madrid won La Liga and the Champions League. That effort earned him third place in the 2024 Ballon d’Or voting.

The challenges ahead are tough, especially competing with Mbappé and Vinicius, but Bellingham’s drive suggests no limits. Securing the Ballon d’Or would be a fitting next milestone in a career marked by groundbreaking achievements and emerging as a true generational talent.

• 2026 Ballon d’Or Contenders:
• Harry Kane
• Lamine Yamal
• Rodri
• Michael Olise
• Lionel Messi