Ian Wright Critiques Media Treatment of Jude Bellingham as a Rising Star

Jude Bellingham made his England debut in 2020.

Former England striker Ian Wright has voiced his concerns regarding the media’s treatment of Jude Bellingham, arguing that some individuals may not be “ready for a black superstar.” The Real Madrid midfielder has faced criticism for his reaction to being substituted during England’s recent World Cup qualifying victory over Albania.

Head coach Thomas Tuchel, who previously apologized to Bellingham for labeling his on-field behavior as “repulsive,” indicated that he would reevaluate the midfielder’s response to the substitution.

Bellingham has showcased his talent as England advanced to the Euro 2024 finals, yet his position as a guaranteed starter under Tuchel is now uncertain, raising questions about his inclusion in next summer’s World Cup squad. Wright believes that the media’s portrayal of the 22-year-old, who made his international debut at 17, is influenced by racial biases, suggesting that Bellingham’s confident presence may unsettle some.

“I’m worried for Jude simply because he’s someone they [the media] can’t control,” Wright stated on The Overlap YouTube channel. “He’s demonstrating that he is here, he is black, he is proud, and he is prepared to excel.”

Bellingham’s career has soared since his departure from Birmingham City in 2020 to join German club Borussia Dortmund, followed by his transfer to Real Madrid three years later in a deal valued at up to €133.9 million (£115 million). He quickly made an impact at the Bernabeu, winning both La Liga and the Champions League in his debut season, scoring 23 goals and providing 13 assists.

At Euro 2024, he played a critical role in Gareth Southgate’s squad, notably scoring a spectacular overhead kick in the dying moments of their quarter-final match against Slovakia, which led to extra time.

Gary Neville, a former England defender and fellow pundit, recalled how Raheem Sterling felt unfairly targeted by the media during Euro 2016. In 2018, Sterling publicly criticized the portrayal of black footballers in national newspapers, accusing them of perpetuating prejudice.

When asked if there were parallels between Sterling’s experience and Bellingham’s, Wright remarked, “I don’t think they are ready for a black superstar who can perform at the level Jude is achieving. They can’t match him. He consistently delivers and excels in his performances.”

He continued, highlighting the different perceptions of black footballers: “People are more comfortable with a humble figure like N’Golo Kante, but when it comes to a dynamic player like Bellingham or Paul Pogba, that energy can be intimidating for some. Jude’s exceptional capabilities and potential for inspiration seem to frighten certain individuals.”

Bellingham was omitted from England’s October squad for matches against Wales and Latvia but returned for the recent qualifiers against Serbia and Albania. He came on in the 65th minute against Serbia and was substituted in the 84th minute against Albania.

Tuchel reflected, “If you have competitive players like Jude, they may not appreciate being substituted. However, it is essential to maintain standards and respect within the team; decisions will not change due to emotional reactions.”

Wright also referenced the racial abuse faced by Bukayo Saka, Marcus Rashford, and Jadon Sancho on social media following their missed penalties in the Euro 2021 final against Italy. He noted the defacement of a mural dedicated to Rashford, who had campaigned against government proposals to eliminate free school meals during school holidays.

“Being outspoken, black, and performing at an elite level can intimidate some people,” Wright concluded, reflecting on his own experience as a former England player.