The Real Madrid midfielder displayed qualities reminiscent of Ronaldo when he rescued the Three Lions during their Euro 2024 last-16 match against Slovenia. With only seconds remaining, Bellingham executed a spectacular overhead kick that tied the game, paving the way for England’s extra-time victory.
Former Manchester United defender Brown, who played alongside Ronaldo at Old Trafford, shared on the Euro Thrash podcast that Bellingham possesses similar traits to the Portuguese star: “It’s not arrogance; it’s confidence. Cristiano Ronaldo had the same attitude. Despite early criticism, he would come back determined to prove everyone wrong. He understood he would make mistakes but focused on improving regardless of missed opportunities. He would say, ‘This is football, and I will keep getting better’. Jude exhibits this mentality. He also shows frustration because he knows his potential. Without Jude’s goal, we would have been out.”
Bellingham, who has just turned 21, isn’t the only young talent shining for England. United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, at 19, is also impressing. Brown commented on the young Red Devils’ academy graduate: “He has brought his United form to the national team. He is composed, eager for the ball, and unafraid to push forward and get involved. As a United fan, you wanted him playing from the start, and I think Gareth [Southgate] has recognized his potential. He’s very different from [Conor] Gallagher and has formed a solid partnership with [Declan] Rice, making England’s midfield more cohesive.”
England is now preparing for their European Championship quarter-final against Switzerland. Bellingham, who won La Liga and the Champions League with Real in 2023-24, aims to create more magical moments in Dusseldorf on Saturday.
Jude Bellingham
Jude Bellingham
EnglandReal Madrid performance and stats
Real Madrid
Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro
PortugalAl Nassr performance and stats
