Jude Bellingham has rediscovered his best form at the World Cup with 6 goals for England. After two difficult seasons at Real Madrid, his revival offers hope under Jose Mourinho.
The World Cup was seen as a turning point for many players. Not only regarding their role with their countries, but also in terms of Real Madrid. After another trophyless season, the showcase of a World Cup became a double-edged sword, as it could either rub salt into wounds or allow some to rediscover their best form.
In Jude Bellingham's case, his World Cup with England has brought him back to his best version.
The Englishman arrived at Real Madrid three seasons ago following one of the most significant outlays in the club's history. His young age and what he had shown at Birmingham and Dortmund convinced the club to bet on who they considered one of the best footballing prospects in the world. And his first season proved them right.
Bellingham had a sublime season and was one of the main architects of that league and Champions League double. However, the following two seasons were full of doubts. Injuries, rumors about his bad habits, and his inconsistent performances raised questions about his place at the club.
But not only at Real Madrid, but also a debate opened about whether Bellingham would be called up by Tuchel for the World Cup. In fact, after several substitutions in matches with the Three Lions, the England coach hinted that no one, not even Bellingham, had a guaranteed spot in the World Cup.
It was not an empty threat, as Tuchel put together a bold squad, leaving big names out of the World Cup. That did not happen with Bellingham, as he earned his place in the final stretch of the season.
Thus, Tuchel, Bellingham, and England were all in the spotlight of criticism. Many voices doubted they could have a great World Cup. However, England are already in the semifinals thanks to Tuchel and a sublime Bellingham.
And yes, despite the doubts and his inconsistent form, Bellingham has led his country alongside Harry Kane. He has returned to the version he showed during his first season at Real Madrid. A committed player, capable of linking plays together and deadly inside the opponent's box. The surprise effect of his runs and his goal-scoring instinct have made him the most solid attacking weapon for his national team.
No matter how difficult the match is or how much or little possession his team has, in key moments, Bellingham is the one who pulls the chestnuts out of the fire. He is a leader for his country, not only in footballing terms, but also mentally and emotionally. Everything that was thought he would do at Real Madrid, but which faded over the last two seasons.
Tuchel has understood where to position Bellingham to get the best out of him. He has placed him close to the box to unlock his most decisive version. So much so that Bellingham already has 6 goals. An extraordinary number for someone who is not a striker. For context, Harry Kane has the same; Haaland has 7, and Mbappe and Messi have 8. In other words, Bellingham is still in the running for the World Cup Golden Boot.
That goalscoring contribution has helped Real Madrid achieve the record for the most goals by players from a single club at a World Cup. Real Madrid players now have a total of 19 goals with three matches remaining.
This version of Bellingham excites the Madridistas. With Jose Mourinho's arrival, hopes are high that he can bring out the best in the Englishman. And a great Real Madrid depends on making Jude work with Kylian, Vinicius, and a midfield that allows Bellingham to maintain that ability to appear in the opponent's box.
In recent seasons, there has been uncertainty about what type of player Bellingham is. It is curious, since he already showed it in his first season. It seems that despite his quality, Bellingham is not an 8 or a 5; he is a 10 with a striker's soul.
The Portuguese coach has seen the best version of Bellingham during the World Cup. Also that of Kylian and Vinicius. One of his first and most important tasks will be to find the tactical setup that finally allows those performances to be seen simultaneously at Real Madrid.
