Jude Bellingham proved with his performances against Man City in the Champions League that he is England’s most complete midfielder.
What makes that statement absurd is that Jude Bellingham is only 17 years old. Seventeen.
Bellingham is not old enough to indulge in a pint in the UK or even buy a copy of Grand Theft Auto. Oh and he was also only three days old when David Beckham completed his transfer to Real Madrid. Just a little context to make you feel painfully old.
The first Champions League goal feeling. ? pic.twitter.com/8dQlmOYBvS
– 90min (@ 90min_Football) 14 April 2021
Despite all the negativity that Borussia Dortmund have late surrounded with their BuLi form falling from a cliff and the future of both Jadon Sancho and Erling Haaland in the air, they must be credited for the work they do to allow young talent to thrive.
It’s one thing to discover a young player and unbutton them, but getting them to reach their potential level is a completely different challenge and often a pitfall for a youngster making the big step. Dortmund continue to provide the platform for young players, which acts as the big club they can grow up with, often before moving on to bigger and better things.
The 17-year-old has already accumulated over 30 matches during his first season with the club, which in itself is impressive considering that he came from the English second tier.
Bellingham has wasted time getting going in Germany Pool / Getty Images
He has not lost in these games either.
His fighting style has been translated into Germany. Bellingham sit in the 94th percentile for expected assists per 90 and have an average of 22.6 pressure per 90 and 2.4 blocks per 90. Combine that with their efficiency when it comes to bringing games forward from midfield and getting the ball around penalty area, and you have an almost perfect midfielder – already.
It may be Bellingham’s mental attributes that make his game what it is, though. Lots of young stars have technical ability in abundance and can manipulate the ball as they please, but to do so at a huge football club and constantly impress in the Champions League is completely different.
The teenager’s progress and sheer ability give Gareth Southgate very little excuse for not taking him to Euro 2020, especially with creative, ball-playing midfielders who can also track back and help defensively to be at such a premium.
Book your planet ticket, Gareth | Pool / Getty Images
The tournament experience is invaluable for young players, and Bellingham going to the euro – even as a rotating bit – can help Bellingham get to the next level.
