Jude Bellingham Then and Now
By Cornell Scott / August 15, 2025
In the world of modern football, few stars have risen as rapidly, gracefully, and with as much maturity as Jude Bellingham. At just 21 years old (as of 2024), the English midfielder has already become a Ballon d’Or contender, a key player for Real Madrid, and a national hero for England.
With a rare blend of technical brilliance, physical dominance, and leadership beyond his years, Bellingham’s journey—from a teenage sensation in Birmingham to one of the most celebrated athletes on the planet—is the stuff of footballing legend.
Then: The Boy Wonder from Birmingham (2003–2020)
1. Early Life and Youth Career
Born on June 29, 2003, in Stourbridge, West Midlands, Jude Victor William Bellingham was raised in a close-knit, sports-loving family.
His father, Mark Bellingham, was a semi-professional footballer and youth coach, instilling in Jude a deep understanding of the game from an early age.
Jude joined Birmingham City’s academy at just seven years old. Coaches immediately noticed his intelligence, composure, and ability to read the game—traits far beyond his age.
By 13, he was training with the senior squad. At 15, he became the youngest player in Birmingham City’s history when he made his professional debut in August 2019—just days after his 16th birthday.
2. Breakthrough at Birmingham City
Bellingham didn’t just play—he excelled. As a central midfielder, he combined vision, stamina, tackling, and maturity rarely seen in teenagers. He played 44 games for Birmingham, captaining the side and earning the Championship Player of the Month award in January 2020.
His performances attracted attention from top European clubs, including Liverpool, Manchester United, and Arsenal. But it was Borussia Dortmund—renowned for developing young talent—that won the race.
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The Rise: Bundesliga Brilliance and International Stardom (2020–2023)
1. Move to Borussia Dortmund – The Making of a Star
In July 2020, at just 17 years old, Bellingham completed a €25 million transfer to Borussia Dortmund, becoming the most expensive 17-year-old in football history at the time.
The move was a gamble—but it paid off instantly. In his debut season, he adapted seamlessly to the physicality and pace of the Bundesliga, earning praise from legends like Marco Reus and Jürgen Klopp. By his second season, he was a starter, scoring crucial goals and providing leadership in midfield.
By 2022, he was captaining Dortmund in the absence of senior players—a rare honor for a teenager.
2. International Breakthrough with England
Bellingham’s club success earned him a call-up to the England senior national team in November 2020, making him the youngest England player in over 100 years to feature in a competitive match at age 17.
He was named in England’s squad for UEFA Euro 2020 (held in 2021), and by 2022, he was a fixture in Gareth Southgate’s World Cup squad.
At the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, Bellingham dazzled with his composure, work rate, and goal-scoring ability, including a stunning long-range strike against Iran—England’s first goal of the tournament.
He quickly became a fan favorite, known not just for his skill, but for his maturity, humility, and respect for the game.
3. Awards and Recognition
By 2023, Bellingham had won numerous accolades:
- Kicker Bundesliga Rookie of the Year (2021)
- Germany’s Footballer of the Year (2023)
- FIFPRO World 11 nominee
- England Men’s Player of the Year (2023)
He was also named one of TIME Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People of 2023—a testament to his impact beyond football.
Related: Kevin De Bruyne Then and Now
Now: The Real Madrid Era and Global Icon Status (2023–2025)
1. A Dream Move to Real Madrid
In June 2023, in one of the most anticipated transfers of the decade, Real Madrid signed Jude Bellingham for a reported €103 million, making him one of the most expensive midfielders in history.
Wearing the #5 jersey—previously held by legends like Zidane and Kroos—Bellingham faced immense pressure. But he responded in the most spectacular fashion.
2. A Historic Debut Season at the Bernabéu
Bellingham’s 2023–2025 season with Real Madrid was nothing short of legendary:
- La Liga Champion (2023–25)
- UEFA Champions League Winner (2023–25) – Real Madrid’s 15th title
- Top Scorer for Real Madrid in his debut season with 19 goals and 8 assists in La Liga
- Scored a crucial winning goal in stoppage time against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League quarterfinals
- Netted a hat-trick against Union Berlin in La Liga, becoming the first Englishman to do so for Real Madrid
His ability to score, create, defend, and lead redefined the role of a modern midfielder. He played as a box-to-box engine, often arriving in the box to score at critical moments—earning comparisons to legends like Lothar Matthäus and Steven Gerrard.
3. Ballon d’Or Contender
By mid-2024, Bellingham was the frontrunner for the Ballon d’Or—the first Englishman since Michael Owen (2001) to be in serious contention. His combination of club success, international impact, and global popularity made him the face of a new generation of footballers.
4. Cultural Icon and Role Model
Beyond the pitch, Bellingham has become a global ambassador for sportsmanship, humility, and excellence. He’s known for:
- Speaking multiple languages (English, German, Spanish)
- Giving thoughtful, articulate interviews
- Respecting opponents and officials
- Advocating for mental health awareness
- Representing England with pride and dignity
His signature celebration—kneeling with arms outstretched, head bowed—has become iconic, symbolizing gratitude and focus.
He’s also a major figure in fashion and lifestyle, partnering with Adidas, EA Sports, and Pepsi, and appearing on the cover of FIFA 24.
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Personal Life and Character
Despite his fame, Bellingham remains grounded. He lives a relatively private life, often crediting his family—especially his father and younger brother Jobe Bellingham (also a professional footballer)—for his success.
He’s known for his work ethic, discipline, and emotional intelligence. Teammates and coaches consistently praise his professionalism, leadership, and willingness to learn.
Off the field, he supports various charities and has spoken openly about the pressures of young stardom, urging fans to prioritize mental well-being.
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Cultural Impact and Legacy
Jude Bellingham represents a new era in football:
- Talent without ego
- Youth with wisdom
- Global stardom with humility
He’s not just a footballer—he’s a symbol of what’s possible when talent meets character. In an age of social media noise and instant fame, Bellingham stands out for his consistency, maturity, and love for the game.
He’s also a beacon for English football, proving that homegrown talent can not only compete but dominate at the highest level—on the world stage and in Europe’s most prestigious club.
Conclusion: Jude Bellingham – Then and Now
- Then: A 16-year-old from Birmingham, making history as the youngest player in Championship history, dreaming of the top.
- Now: A Champions League winner, La Liga champion, Ballon d’Or favorite, and global superstar at Real Madrid—already being called one of the greatest English players of all time.
Jude Bellingham’s journey is more than a rags-to-riches story—it’s a masterclass in preparation, perseverance, and purpose. He didn’t just arrive at the top; he earned every step.
As he continues to grow, score, lead, and inspire, one thing is certain:
Jude Bellingham isn’t just the future of football.
He’s already its present.
⚽ “I don’t play for the spotlight. I play for the love of the game—and the people who believe in me.” – Jude Bellingham
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