Bellingham's reconquest

Bellingham has rediscovered his best form under Mourinho after a difficult third season, excelling for England at the 2026 World Cup and now delivering at Real Madrid with five goals and three assists in 15 games.

Jude Bellingham's three seasons at Real Madrid have traced a dramatic arc. His first campaign in 2023-24 was extraordinary: 23 goals and 13 assists in 42 matches as he helped Madrid win La Liga and the Champions League. His second season proved less spectacular but still solid, with 14 goals and 13 assists in 51 games, though the arrival of Mbappé shifted his role.

Last season marked a sharp decline. A shoulder operation delayed his return until late September, and new manager Xabi Alonso deployed him in deeper positions away from the box. He finished with just eight goals and five assists in 40 matches—his worst return since joining Madrid. Beyond the statistics, Bellingham lost presence in the area and the authority that had defined his play.

England's 2026 World Cup proved transformative. Bellingham scored seven goals in eight matches—a record for an English player in a major tournament—and was named England's player of the year for the second consecutive time. That form has carried into the Nations League and now into his club football. Under José Mourinho, Bellingham has regained the freedom to interpret space and drive forward. In 15 official games this season, he has five goals and three assists.