After a long, relentless season, most players would be winding down.
But for Jude Bellingham, there’s no time to rest.
With the Club World Cup in full swing, he’s still fighting through the final stretch—even while managing an injury that’s been nagging him for months.
“I Just Want My Old Body Back” — Bellingham Ready for Surgery
Bellingham didn’t hold back when speaking after Real Madrid’s 3–1 win over Pachuca at the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte.
Deep in the stadium tunnels, far from the summer heat outside, the 21-year-old was honest about his physical limits.
“It’s game 61 this season,” he said with a tired smile, “and I’m hoping to make it to 66.
But I’m fed up with this shoulder brace. I just want my old body back.”
Surgery is already penciled in for the week after the final.
Bellingham’s pushing through pain, not just for silverware now, but with one eye firmly on being fully fit for the World Cup next summer.
Exhaustion Is Real, But the Mission Isn’t Over
Bellingham admitted the season’s intensity is catching up with him.
“With the new kits, new signings, and a new manager, it sort of tricks your mind into thinking it’s a new season,” he explained.
“But your legs know you’ve already played 50, 60 games.”
And playing in this heat? Even harder. Still, he and his teammates are determined: “It’s five more games of graft to win something big.”
The Pitches Aren’t Helping Either
Alongside the heat, the pitch conditions are another challenge.
Bellingham was critical of the playing surfaces.
“The ball barely bounces, and it holds up too much. It’s brutal on the knees,” he said.
“If we want to give the fans great games, we’ve got to protect the players too.”
When Madrid Needed a Hero, Bellingham Delivered
Down to ten men, Real Madrid needed someone to step up—and, of course, Bellingham did just that.
He powered them into the lead against Pachuca, showing once again why he’s so vital to Los Blancos’ hopes of lifting yet another Club World Cup trophy.
A New Era Begins Under Xabi Alonso
As Real Madrid transitions from Carlo Ancelotti’s leadership to a new chapter under Xabi Alonso, Bellingham finds himself adjusting once more.
Alonso is known for his tactical discipline and structured systems, a contrast to the freedom Bellingham had under Ancelotti.
But so far, it seems to be clicking. “Xabi sees me as someone who needs to start from the right position because I have the soul of a midfielder,” Jude said.
“We’ve had good conversations, and I think we’re on the same page.”
Freedom to Be Creative Still Matters to Bellingham
What hasn’t changed? Bellingham’s desire to stay involved in every aspect of play.
“I love being deep, high, driving forward, scoring, assisting—just being in the game,” he said. “I think Xabi gets that.
He’s put me in a spot I enjoy, and I’m grateful for the trust.”
That freedom might evolve over time, but the foundation for a strong partnership between player and coach seems firmly in place.
Learning from a Midfield Legend
Having Alonso—one of the best midfielders of his generation—as a coach is a major bonus.
“He was amazing at Leverkusen, and as a player, he won it all,” Bellingham said.
“Me, Fede, Aurel—we’re just trying to soak everything in like sponges.”
It’s a mentorship that could shape the next phase of Jude’s career, and he knows how valuable that is.
Trent Alexander-Arnold Already Impressing in Madrid
Bellingham also spoke highly of his England teammate Trent Alexander-Arnold, who recently made the big move from Liverpool to Madrid.
“He’s settled in quickly. The lads love him. He’s even speaking a bit of Spanish already, which surprised all of us!”
Jude’s confident Trent will thrive, despite the pressure: “He’s here for a reason.
He’s got what it takes to make a big impact.”
A Proud Brother Moment as Jobe Makes His Mark
Off the pitch, Jude’s also beaming with pride over his younger brother Jobe, who recently scored his first goal for Borussia Dortmund.
“We talk every day. I’m just so proud of him,” he shared.
“Our parents have been flying between our games—it’s a proud time for the whole family.”
For Jude, watching his brother succeed at the highest level adds a little extra joy to an otherwise grueling schedule.
What’s Next for Jude Bellingham?
With five games left in his season and a looming surgery ahead, Jude Bellingham is grinding through the final stretch with grit, purpose, and maturity well beyond his years.
Whether it’s delivering goals, learning from legends, or supporting his teammates, he’s proving why he’s one of football’s brightest stars—on and off the pitch.