In a meteoric rise, 20-year-old Jude Bellingham has quickly become essential for Real Madrid, prompting football pundits to speculate that he could be a “Real Madrid player for life“, reported by GOAL. Since joining the Spanish giants in the summer of 2023, Bellingham has not only broken records previously held by Cristiano Ronaldo in Spain but has also had his No.22 shirt retired at his first club, Birmingham City.

The former Borussia Dortmund midfielder, a recipient of prestigious awards like the Kopa Trophy and the Golden Boy, is drawing comparisons to England legend Paul Gascoigne. Chris Waddle, the ex-England star, believes that given Bellingham's remarkable performances, Real Madrid will likely initiate contract extension talks in the coming years, possibly making him a long-term fixture at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Waddle praises Bellingham's growth, highlighting his formative experience in Germany where he learned the language, adapted to a different culture, and honed his skills. The midfielder's consistent goal-scoring form for Real Madrid is seen as not only beneficial for the club but also a significant asset for the English national team.

Bellingham's potential impact on England's fortunes in the upcoming European Championship is likened to Gascoigne's transformative role in the 1990 World Cup. Waddle emphasizes the scrutiny Bellingham and star striker Harry Kane will face from opposing teams, noting that limiting their influence could be a key strategy for opponents.

Despite Jude Bellingham's impressive tally of 15 goals in 17 appearances for Real Madrid, he is currently nursing a shoulder injury, raising concerns about potential surgery. As England gears up for the European Championship, Bellingham's form remains crucial, and his ability to navigate heightened expectations will be closely watched by fans and rival teams alike.