Jude Bellingham praised Wayne Rooney, the legendary player for Manchester United, as his greatest childhood influence.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Ever since joining Real Madrid in the summer in a €131 million (£114 million/$138 million) trade from Borussia Dortmund, the England international has been in incredible form. He followed in the footsteps of other champions like Rooney, Lionel Messi, Paul Pogba, Kylian Mbappe, and Erling Haaland, and now he has the Golden Boy award to show for his efforts. Bellingham, who has loved Manchester United and former England star Wayne Rooney since he was a young boy, was overcome with pride when he accepted the golden ball on Monday night at a ceremony in Turin.

WHAT BELLINGHAM SAID

Bellingham stated, “It’s about trying to make my team and my country the best teams in the world,” after accepting the prize. I believe that in order to assist your teams win, you have to be the greatest player in the world. Being included on such list is truly an honor.

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“I think that growing up, Rooney had the largest influence on me. His English origins, his style of play, and his fighting technique. But I’ve borrowed ideas from so many other players.”

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Bellingham’s performance in 2023 has been exceptional. Before leaving for Spain, he was named the 2022–2023 Bundesliga Player of the Season after Borussia Dortmund finished second in Germany’s premier division. With 15 goals in 17 games in all competitions, he has become Carlo Ancelotti’s top scorer in Madrid. Bellingham had previously been the recipient of the Kopa Trophy, which is given to the world’s finest Under-21 player in October.

WHAT NEXT FOR BELLINGHAM?Bellingham’s goals in front of goal have helped Real Madrid to the top of La Liga and the Champions League standings right now. He’ll be back in action on Saturday when Real Madrid travels to Real Betis. On the other hand, that same day, Rooney will captain Birmingham against Coventry in the Championship.