“Are you feeling nervous? No need to be – it’s going to be a really enjoyable experience!” Jude Bellingham is excited for his first clásico match.


As a child, Jude Bellingham would stay up past his bedtime to watch the clásico. He was eager not to miss any of the action and now, as a player, his team relies on him to be on the field. This season, only one Real Madrid player has played more clásicos than him. When he appeared to be injured towards the end of their midweek game against Braga, there was concern that he may not be able to play in the upcoming game against Barcelona. However, Bellingham assures that it was just a minor issue and he is ready for the highly anticipated match on Saturday afternoon.

During an interview with Spanish state TV, Bellingham was asked if he felt anxious about the game. He responded by saying that he wasn’t nervous, as he has experience playing in high-pressure games, although this may be one of the biggest ones he’s played in. He stated that he is more excited than anything and is eagerly anticipating the atmosphere. Overall, he believes it will be a fun experience.

“When I was a child in England, I used to watch the clásicos and Spanish football on TV. I was a huge fan of the games and would always stay up late to watch, even when my mom told me to go to bed. I never missed the last minute of any clásico. I still remember iconic moments like Ronaldo’s ‘calma’ gesture at Camp Nou. These unforgettable moments, both good and bad, have stayed with me. Playing in these classic games is truly a pleasure due to the countless magical moments they have brought.”

“As a football player, where else would you rather be? It’s clear to imagine the significance. It’s not difficult to comprehend – I grew up watching clásicos and seeing the fans’ reactions both in the stadium and on TV. It’s evident how much it means to them.”

We are aware of our responsibility to go out and make our fans proud. In the last game, I experienced a minor issue due to fatigue from playing many games. However, I am focused on ensuring I am in optimal condition. I am currently feeling well.

Jude Bellingham throws himself into a tackle against Braga

Vinícius Júnior, a teammate of Bellingham, believes that he was destined to play for Real Madrid. Bellingham has an impressive record of eight goals in nine league games and has also scored in all three of his Champions League appearances. This is not a coincidence, as he is currently the most fouled player in the Spanish league. He has been compared to legendary players such as Raúl, Zinedine Zidane, Alfredo Di Stéfano, and even Diego Maradona after his spectacular goal against Napoli. However, Bellingham humbly stated that such comparisons may be a bit exaggerated.

Bellingham expressed difficulty in discussing himself, acknowledging the support he has received from both staff and teammates. They have made his experience more manageable, and on the field, he feels liberated due to his role under the coach. He finds it enjoyable and believes that when he is having fun, he performs at his peak. He hopes this positive trend will continue.

Carlo Ancelotti stated that throughout his career in football, he had never witnessed a player at such a young age have such a significant impact. The fans at the Bernabéu have embraced Bellingham by serenading him with Hey Jude. His celebration after scoring goals has already become iconic, largely due to its frequent occurrence.

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“It has been quite unexpected,” stated Bellingham, who turned 20 in June. “I believe it is a part of my performance that has progressed. However, for me, the most crucial aspect is making an impact on the game in all areas of the field. Of course, I have been very precise in my finishing and have demonstrated skill in creating and scoring goals, but I also feel my overall game has been strong, so I am pleased with that.”

“I am a huge fan of the Beatles and their music. There are countless amazing songs, but there is one in particular that holds a special place in my heart. Whenever I hear it, I am filled with excitement, especially when I am on the field after scoring a goal, making a tackle, or executing a skill. The song starts off slowly and gradually builds up, giving me goosebumps every time. It is something that I am truly proud of and I am grateful to the fans for their warm welcome to the club. So far, it has been a great start and I am determined to continue to show my appreciation to them.”

Source: theguardian.com