Jude Bellingham revels in Bernabeu splendour as his impact grows at Real Madrid
Jude Bellingham has returned to the line-up for today's La Liga match against Getafe, eager to make an impact after missing the Las Palmas clash due to suspension.
The English midfielder, now a linchpin for the team, reflects on his season so far, highlighting his awe-inspiring experiences at the Bernabeu.
In an interview on the club's website, Bellingham expresses his admiration for playing at the iconic stadium: "You know Real Madrid is the biggest club in the world, but when you experience it up close, especially at the Bernabeu with the renovations, it's something spectacular. It's like playing in a coliseum. You feel like a gladiator. It's very special. You never imagine how massive this club is. It's impossible to go out without being recognized. This club is on another level."
Bellingham, who joined Madrid last summer, already feels at home in the city: "I feel at home in this city. My family is comfortable, friends have visited, and they love the city. The people and fans are very respectful. I'm treated very well. I feel like I've been here for years with the coaching staff and teammates. I'm very happy with this start, and now it's about maintaining this level throughout the season in this great club."
Reflecting on his evolving role, Bellingham notes how his goal-scoring has increased since his move from Dortmund: "My role has changed since I came to this club. At Dortmund, I scored a lot of goals but played deeper. It was harder to score. Now, I play with the world's best more like a '10' and near the area. I have the freedom to move anywhere on the field, and I like being creative, shooting, creating, and scoring goals. It's all thanks to the coach and my teammates."
Joining Madrid has certainly changed Bellingham's life, but he insists he remains true to himself: "I'm the same person in interviews, at home, or with friends. I like to joke and laugh, enjoy myself. I'm facing a magnificent opportunity to do what I love the most. There aren't many people in the world who can say the same, and I value what I'm achieving."
Closing the conversation, Bellingham reflects on winning his first title, the Spanish Super Cup: "A very good moment, I'm very proud of this instant. It's not easy to go to Saudi Arabia in the midst of the season and after a winter break. We played against two impressive teams. I think we dominated the first game. We were unlucky it went to extra time, but again the team showed character.
"In the final, our class and quality were evident. Winning my first title was a significant moment. You join this club to experience such moments, and it was very nice to finally touch a trophy. I hope more come. You have to take it day by day, train hard, come home, be a good guy, treat people with respect, and keep doing it," he added.
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