Real Madrid fans have been quick to draw comparisons between Jude Bellingham and the club’s legendary figure, Zinedine Zidane, owing to Bellingham’s remarkable start with the team.
A prominent Real Madrid fan account, Madrid Xtra on X, took to Twitter to express their admiration for Bellingham, highlighting the parallels between the young talent and former Real Madrid icon Zinedine Zidane. The tweet featured a collage of images showcasing Bellingham and Zidane both donning similar jersey numbers while representing their respective clubs and national teams.
Jude Bellingham took the number five jersey at Real Madrid while donning the number 10 for his national side, England. Similarity to the English midfielder idol Zindane, who wore number 5 at Real Madrid and number 10 for France.
Jude Bellingham following the footsteps of his idol… ✨ pic.twitter.com/XwukCgxH5V
— Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) September 9, 2023
This tweet signifies the growing esteem that Real Madrid’s fan base holds for Jude Bellingham. After just four appearances for Real Madrid, supporters are cautiously drawing comparisons to Zidane, underscoring the immense potential they see in their latest superstar, who joined the team during the summer transfer window.
Zinedine Zidane remains one of Real Madrid’s most illustrious figures, dazzling fans during his five-season stint with the club. Zidane made 227 appearances, netting 49 goals and contributing 68 assists during his tenure. He played a pivotal role in securing a La Liga title and a UEFA Champions League trophy for Real Madrid while sporting the iconic number 5 jersey.
In 2023, Bellingham’s early performances have been nothing short of record-breaking. In just four games, he has already scored five goals, catapulting him to the top of La Liga’s goal-scoring charts.
During his presentation ceremony, Bellingham expressed his intention to honor Zinedine Zidane by wearing the number 5 jersey at Real Madrid, and his on-field performances are certainly validating that commitment.
Zinedine Zidane on Jude Bellingham
Zinedine Zidane, also renowned for his successful managerial stint at Real Madrid, has shared his insights into the capabilities of Jude Bellingham. Back in June, Zidane expressed confidence in Jude Bellingham’s readiness to make a significant impact in the upcoming season.
Zidane told Mundo Deportivo, “He’s an important player, a player with a great future, and he is ready to play for Real Madrid,“
The former Real Madrid manager revealed that he had the opportunity to talk to Jude Bellingham when they watched the UEFA Champions League final in Paris together, where Liverpool faced off against Real Madrid back in 2022.
Jude Bellingham is the new Zidane pic.twitter.com/W5aEynLrdp
— Twilight (@the_marcoli_boy) September 9, 2023
Jude Bellingham, the 20-year-old midfielder, enjoyed a remarkable spell in Germany before making his high-profile move to Los Blancos. His transfer to Real Madrid during the summer came at a staggering cost of $111 million. During his tenure at Borussia Dortmund, he made 132 appearances, scoring 24 goals and providing 25 assists.
Bellingham, as predicted by Zindane, has hit the ground running with four match-winning performances for the club. As per tactical adjustments implemented by Carlo Ancelotti. Bellingham now operates in a more advanced role within a 4-4-2 diamond formation, deviating from the previous 4-3-3 setup.
Bellingham has played a crucial role in bolstering Real Madrid’s attacking output, particularly in light of Vinícius Jr.’s injury and the squad’s shortage of offensive firepower following Karim Benzema’s departure in the summer.