Jude Bellingham has kicked off the new season with an impressive display, establishing himself as a key player for Real Madrid under the management of Jose Mourinho. The 23-year-old midfielder has already contributed two goals and three assists, helping the team secure three consecutive victories in La Liga.
Since joining Real Madrid, Bellingham has been recognized for his dynamic performances, particularly in a more advanced role that allows him to exert greater influence on the game. This adjustment has drawn attention, especially considering his remarkable debut season in 2023-24, where he netted 23 goals, aiding Madrid in clinching both the La Liga title and the Champions League trophy.
In contrast, Bellingham's last two seasons were marked by inconsistency, largely due to a deeper playing position and recurring injuries. He faced challenges with a shoulder issue that necessitated surgery in 2025 and a hamstring injury that sidelined him for ten matches in 2026. However, he now appears to be in peak condition, ready to build on his impressive World Cup performance with England and showcase his full capabilities.
Since Mourinho's return to the club, he has made a significant tactical shift, reducing Bellingham's defensive responsibilities. In a recent post-match interview following Real Madrid's 4-0 victory over Malaga, Mourinho explained, "We’ve organised the team differently. Bellingham sometimes defended like a second left-back last season. I told him I do not want to see that anymore. I made a deal with him." This new approach positions Bellingham primarily as a number 10 in a 4-2-3-1 formation, allowing him to operate behind star striker Kylian Mbappe.
This tactical change has provided Bellingham with a clearer role, enabling him to spend more time in offensive areas where he can be most effective. Mourinho emphasized the importance of Bellingham's positioning, stating, "For me, this is his position, with his connection with the forwards, he can score goals. He has to play close to the goal. Playing at number six or number eight, we’re losing his closeness to the goal. I like this Jude." This freedom allows Bellingham to receive the ball in dangerous areas, make forward runs, and combine effectively with forwards like Mbappe and Vinicius Jr.
Bellingham himself has noted the positive impact of this tactical shift, sharing in an interview with Real Madrid TV, "I feel more free to decide when to drop back, when to stay up or when to get into the box. I think this is the best position for me." While Mourinho still expects him to contribute defensively, the focus has shifted to initiating pressing higher up the pitch, thereby allowing Bellingham to connect midfield with attack more seamlessly.
Moreover, Mourinho has highlighted the need for collective effort among his attacking players, stating, "The team dynamic is about 11, not 2+9." This philosophy underlines the importance of teamwork, with Bellingham playing a crucial role in this setup. The England international has expressed his enthusiasm for working with Mourinho, describing it as a "dream" experience. The mutual respect between the two is evident, with Mourinho regarding Bellingham as a "unique and super important player" and suggesting he should be considered for the Ballon d'Or due to his exceptional qualities.
Bellingham's versatility, which allows him to press, recover possession, and contribute in various ways, has been a focal point for Mourinho. The manager has also referenced Bellingham's standout performances for England during the World Cup, where he excelled with seven goals and an assist in eight matches. This experience has seemingly instilled a newfound confidence in Bellingham as he adjusts to the demands of the new season.
As Real Madrid continues its campaign with three league wins, scoring ten goals and conceding just two, the early signs are promising for both the team and Bellingham. The midfielder, who has always been known for his ability to influence the game across various facets, now enjoys greater control over his contributions, leading to a resurgence in form. Bellingham himself noted, "I’m having a lot of fun, I’m really enjoying my football, and that’s why I’m performing well." If this trend continues under Mourinho's guidance, Bellingham could be poised for his most successful season yet.
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