Jude Bellingham Hails Alonso for Liberating Madrid Role

Bellingham thriving under Alonso

Jude Bellingham is revelling in the positional freedom Xabi Alonso has handed him at Real Madrid, insisting the tweak allows him to display every facet of his midfield game. Since the former Bernabéu favourite stepped into the dugout, the England international has been encouraged to drift between box-to-box surges and final-third link-ups, a shift that has already produced decisive goals and assists.

Century milestone in sight

When Los Blancos face European champions Paris Saint-Germain in the FIFA Club World Cup semi-final, Bellingham is set to record his 100th appearance for the Spanish giants. The 20-year-old admits the landmark “still feels surreal,” but believes it underlines how smoothly he has settled in Madrid after his Bundesliga breakout.

Alonso’s tactical tweak

Alonso’s 4-2-3-1 system places Bellingham as the advanced pivot, pairing his relentless work rate with licence to arrive late in the box. “Xabi knows that I grew up watching Steven Gerrard,” the midfielder said, “so he’s given me a role where I can press, create and score. I’m loving every minute.”

Eyes on global silverware

Victory over PSG would put Real Madrid within touching distance of yet another world title. Bellingham argues the tournament offers “the perfect stage” to showcase the club’s evolution under Alonso before La Liga hostilities resume.

What it means for England

Gareth Southgate will watch closely; a more complete, confident Bellingham could be England’s trump card at next summer’s Euros, especially if he continues to thrive in Alonso’s dynamic setup.

Opinion

Alonso’s decision to unshackle Bellingham might prove season-defining. Giving Europe’s most exciting young midfielder the keys to Madrid’s engine room looks a masterstroke.