Alvaro Arbeloa Lauds Jude Bellingham as a Future Star for Real Madrid

omidbasir- Real Madrid’s coach, Alvaro Arbeloa, commended Jude Bellingham on Tuesday, describing the midfielder as “a leader” and a potential “cornerstone of this team for many years to come.”

As Madrid prepares to face Benfica in the Champions League on Wednesday, a victory would secure their place in the knockout stage.

Bellingham experienced a slow start to the 2025-26 season while recovering from shoulder surgery last summer. However, he has recently showcased his talent under Arbeloa’s leadership, notably scoring in last week’s impressive 6-1 victory over Monaco.

“It’s not that [Bellingham] was unexpected, but from day one, I recognized a player with exceptional quality and skill,” Arbeloa remarked during a news conference on Tuesday. “Anyone who has seen him play knows this, but witnessing it firsthand is even more impressive.

“Beyond his footballing abilities, I’ve observed a player who aspires to be a leader and a role model. Just 48 hours after a game, I told him — and I rarely say this — ‘stop running.’ The dedication and leadership he displays in training are commendable, and I take great pride in having a player like Jude Bellingham on my team.”

This season, Bellingham has netted four goals in 17 appearances in La Liga and two goals in six Champions League outings.

Following the dismissal of Arbeloa’s predecessor, Xabi Alonso, some fans at the Bernabéu expressed their discontent, directing whistles at several players, including Bellingham. In response to online speculation regarding his off-field behavior, Bellingham celebrated his goal against Monaco with a playful ‘drinking gesture.’

“You can either complain and sulk, or you can embrace it and enjoy it,” Bellingham shared with TNT Sports. “I know the truth and what happens in my personal life, as well as my contributions to the game and the team. The external noise is irrelevant.”

Since assuming his role as coach earlier this month, Arbeloa has consistently praised Bellingham.

“On the field, he excels in various aspects,” the coach stated on Tuesday. “He makes intelligent runs into space, penetrates the box effectively, possesses a strong shot, and demonstrates an excellent understanding of the game. Although he is young, he brings considerable experience, and I firmly believe he will be a foundational player for Real Madrid for many years to come.”