Why Real Madrid decided to spend ￡88.5m on Jude Bellingham

Real Madrid’s latest?￡88.5m signing Jude Bellingham has big shoes to fill in. The English midfielder could potentially replace Luka Modric, in the right central midfield position, at the club.?

His eight goals and four assists in the 30 Bundesliga appearances for Borussia Dortmund in the 2022-23 season prove that the player has the competence to deliver at the Bernabeu outfit but it remains to be seen, whether he succumbs to the pressure, or rises to glory.?

The midfielder has been given the iconic number five jersey at the club, one which France legend Zinedine Zidane, wore in his time at the club between 2001 and 2006.

Bellingham could be the perfect fit in the Real Madrid team consisting of up-and-coming players. He possesses leadership skills, has a genuine passion for the game, and has an immense understanding of tactical play.?

Bellingham is well-poised to take the ball out of rut situations in the midfield position. He has a mix of attacking as well as defensive attributes which will allow Madrid’s midfield to propel in the years to come by.?

The 22-year-old can soak in the pressure when the opponent presses high upfield, and he is also excellent while progressing forward with the ball – quick on his feet, and comfortable with both his legs.?

His FBref’s 94 percentile in progressive carries and 93 in blocks is a testament to his versatile gameplay. Percentile compares him with other midfielders in the top five European leagues, who have played at least 3300 minutes in the 2022-23 season.?

In the final third, his passes are accurate and link-up play with teammates is sublime. He has the potential to take thunderous shots from distance, and he can also finish crisply inside the box. His 99 percentile in non-penalty goals on FBref is the attestation of it.?

The midfielders’ anticipation off-the-ball and on-it is second to none. His ￡88.5m move is justiefied. That amount could increase to ￡115m with the add-ons, making him the second-most expensive signing in Real Madrid’s history.

Bellingham said at his presentation, “A club like Madrid and its fans and the people who work for the club deserve to have trophies every year. This year they didn’t manage to get La Liga and the Champions League.

“That is the standard I want to help the club reach, where they can compete for these honours very closely every year.”

The former Birmingham City midfielder is destined for big things. Joining Real Madrid is just a step forward in his career.