When Ronaldo Likened Real Madrid Star to Zidane and Predicted a Bright Future
- Jude Bellingham has quickly established himself as Real Madrid’s midfield talisman, proving to be a crucial asset in both domestic and European competitions.
- Cristiano Ronaldo, recognizing the young Englishman’s immense talent, has drawn comparisons between Bellingham and club legend Zinedine Zidane, noting similarities in their style
- With Bellingham already making a significant impact at such a young age, Ronaldo confidently predicts a bright future for him at Real Madrid
Cristiano Ronaldo previously drawn comparisons between Jude Bellingham and Real Madrid legend Zinedine Zidane while predicting a stellar future for the young English midfielder.
Bellingham arrived at the Santiago Bernabeu in 2023 in a high-profile €103 million (£88m/$112m) transfer, taking on the iconic No.5 jersey once worn by Zidane.
Source: Getty Images
Ronaldo once compared Bellingham to Zidane
The 22-year-old has lived up to expectations, scoring 33 goals in 73 appearances across all competitions.
His outstanding performances earned him third place in the 2024 Ballon d’Or rankings, finishing behind Madrid teammate Vinicius Jr. and Manchester City’s Rodri, who claimed the top prize.
Speaking about Bellingham’s impact, Ronaldo praised his talent and likened him to Zidane.
"I like him a lot; he reminds me of Zidane," the former Madrid striker told La Sexta.
"Bellingham is very young and has his whole future ahead of him. He will give a lot to Madrid."
When quizzed further on the comparison, Ronaldo added:
“Zidane was amazing, a beautiful player, but Bellingham is 21-years old.
“He’s got his whole future ahead of him. He will give a lot to Madrid, because the boy, I think he will be extraordinary.”
Can Bellingham surpass Zidane?
Zinedine Zidane is widely regarded as one of the greatest midfielders of all time, leaving an enduring legacy at Real Madrid.
In 227 appearances, he scored 49 goals and played a decisive role in their Champions League triumph, highlighted by his iconic volley in the 2002 final.
Many believe Jude Bellingham has the potential not only to match Zidane’s influence in Madrid but to surpass it, having already won both La Liga and the Champions League with the club.
The young midfielder, renowned for his ability to score, create, and dictate play, will be back in action as Real Madrid face Leganes in the Copa del Rey quarter-finals.
Source: Getty Images
Some of Bellingham’s standout moments have echoed Zidane’s brilliance, reminiscent of his legendary volley against Bayer Leverkusen in 2002.
His box-to-box dominance has seen him, like Zidane, win the Champions League in his debut season, alongside a La Liga title and a third-place finish in the Ballon d’Or, cementing his status as a global star.
Remarkably, his numbers are already comparable to Zidane’s at the club.
Per 90min, Zidane recorded 227 appearances, 49 goals, and 67 assists for Real Madrid, while Bellingham has already produced 33 goals and 23 assists in just 79 appearances.
Zidane makes his pick between Ronaldo and Messi
Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported that Zidane weighed into the growing list of football players proclaiming their best-ever players.
The French legend did not hesitate in settling the GOAT debate as he picked his preference between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Source: YEN.com.gh
