Carlo Ancelotti admits 'surprise' at Jude Bellingham's brilliant start to Real Madrid career

Oscar Sanders
4 October 2023

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has hailed Jude Bellingham for displaying a maturity far beyond his years after again impressing in the Champions League match against Napoli.

Bellingham, who joined Real at the beginning of the season for an initial fee of €103 million from Borussia Dortmund, scored a stunning solo goal and made the assist for Vinicius Jr's goal in the 3-2 win over the Neapoletans.

The 20-year has now taken his tally to six goals from seven matches for Los Blancos and manager Ancelotti admits the seamless way the England international has settled in has surprised even him.

"I'm surprised he's only 20 years old because he looks like he's 30 because of his character and attitude," said the Real Madrid boss.

"He is always focused on the game and knows what he has to do. It's unusual for a 20-year-old. He has a lot of quality, physical strength and skill. He surprises me like he does to everyone else."