As the Champions League final approaches, Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham has expressed his excitement and readiness to take on his former club, Borussia Dortmund, at Wembley this weekend.
The 20-year-old midfielder, who has been a standout performer in his debut season at the Bernabeu, spoke candidly during Real Madrid’s pre-final media day at their Valdebebas training complex.
Bellingham, who has been instrumental in Real Madrid’s success this season, contributing 19 league goals from his number 10 role, shared his lifelong dream of playing in club football’s most prestigious match. “It’s definitely special,” Bellingham said. “But I think the preparation has to be the same as it is for every game. It’s important to be me, and not to worry too much about the emotional side.”
Having already secured the La Liga title with Real Madrid, Bellingham’s focus now shifts to the Champions League final. His journey from Borussia Dortmund to Real Madrid has been marked by rapid development and impressive performances, making him a key player for both his club and the England national team, with the Euros on the horizon this summer.
Bellingham’s maturity shone through as he addressed the media, emphasizing the significance of the upcoming match. “I’m really excited. The final is a game I’ve been dreaming of since I started playing football. I understand the opportunity and I don’t want to waste a second. It’s a game I’ve dreamed of all my life. It would be stupid now to get here and want to hide away from the occasion.”
Despite the magnitude of the event, Bellingham remains grounded and focused. He mentioned that while he hasn’t been in recent contact with his former Dortmund teammates, he did exchange messages with Jadon Sancho, currently on loan at Manchester United. Bellingham recalled telling Sancho, “I’ll see you in the final,” highlighting the personal significance and the emotional undercurrent of facing his former club.
As the final looms, Bellingham’s blend of youthful exuberance and professional poise sets the stage for a captivating showdown at Wembley. His journey from Birmingham City to Borussia Dortmund and now Real Madrid has been a testament to his talent and determination. With the world watching, Bellingham is poised to rise to the occasion, aiming to fulfill his lifelong dream and cement his place among football’s elite.
The anticipation builds as Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund prepare to clash, with Bellingham at the heart of the action, ready to make his mark on one of football’s grandest stages.
