Jude Bellingham Returns to Form with Real Madrid After World Cup Success

After a challenging 2025-26 season, Jude Bellingham has reignited his stellar form at Real Madrid, continuing the momentum he built during the World Cup. His performances have reminded fans why he was a serious contender for the Ballon d'Or in 2024.

A Difficult Season Behind Him

Bellingham’s previous campaign was hindered by a shoulder injury that required surgery, preventing him from participating in pre-season under coach Xabi Alonso. Once he returned late September, Alonso deployed him in a defensive midfield role that restricted his usual influence. The season worsened as Alonso was dismissed in January and replaced by Alvaro Arbeloa, but results did not improve. Bellingham ended with only eight goals and five assists from 40 appearances, his lowest output since joining Spain. This led some critics to question whether he deserved a starting spot for England at the 2026 World Cup.

Despite external doubts, Bellingham remained focused and led England to the semi-finals, emerging as arguably the tournament’s fourth-best player after Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, and Golden Ball winner Rodri.

Revitalized Under Jose Mourinho

Back at Madrid, the arrival of Jose Mourinho has sparked a revival in Bellingham's game. Mourinho wasted no time, starting him in Madrid’s season opener against Espanyol just one week after taking charge. Bellingham scored within nine minutes, heading in a free kick from Arda Guler. Although Madrid struggled to find rhythm and secured a narrow 2-1 win, Bellingham stood out with a 95% pass completion and dominant ground duels.

Impressive Performances Continue

In the following match against Real Sociedad, Kylian Mbappe stole headlines with a hat-trick, but Bellingham was nearly as influential. He assisted two goals, including a slick give-and-go with Mbappe and a key pass setting up Vinicius Junior. His defensive work rate was exceptional, winning nine of 14 ground duels and covering almost nine kilometers before being applauded off in the 77th minute.

Mourinho praised Bellingham's vital role before their game with Malaga, calling him “super-important.” Against Malaga, Bellingham scored a composed goal and forced an own goal with his aggressive presence in the box. Madrid claimed a 4-0 victory, making it three wins from three in La Liga, with fans serenading him with "Hey Jude" as he left the pitch.

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

Mourinho's Tactical Shift Maximizes Bellingham

Mourinho has tailored Madrid’s system to suit Bellingham, using a 4-2-3-1 formation similar to Thomas Tuchel's approach. Unlike last season when Bellingham was asked to defend like a second left-back, Mourinho insists he stays closer to goal.

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

Bellingham now enjoys the freedom to attack while still contributing defensively. This balance allows him to shine alongside Mbappe and Vinicius, forming a dynamic attacking trio that Mourinho believes is compatible and full of quality.

Ballon d’Or Prospects

While Mourinho describes Bellingham as a leader and a Ballon d’Or candidate, this year’s award may not be within reach due to Madrid’s trophyless 2025-26 season and stiff competition from players like Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal, Lionel Messi, Michael Olise, and Rodri. Even Mbappe, with 42 goals last season, is seen as an outsider.

Looking ahead, Bellingham’s current pace suggests he could challenge again in 2027. Already with four goal involvements this season, he aims to surpass his debut year at Madrid, where he scored 23 goals and assisted 13, helping secure both La Liga and the Champions League titles.

His third-place finish in the 2024 Ballon d’Or behind Vinicius and Rodri shows his potential. Having overcome setbacks, Bellingham appears stronger, part of a Madrid squad that looks more dangerous than ever.

Outperforming stars like Mbappe and Vinicius over the next months won’t be easy, but Bellingham’s drive and skill suggest no limits. Winning the Ballon d’Or could be the next milestone in a career already marked by exceptional achievements.

• 2025-26 Stats: 40 appearances, 8 goals, 5 assists
• World Cup 2026: England reached semi-finals; Bellingham ranked 4th best player
• Current Season Start: 3 wins from 3 in La Liga
• Recent Matches: Scored vs Espanyol, 2 assists vs Real Sociedad, scored and forced own goal vs Malaga
• Playing Style: Balanced offensive and defensive roles, high energy, strong ball-winning and attacking instincts