Bellingham Opens New Potential to Become 'One of the
October 5, 2026 · Argentina
Jude Bellingham is now in the spotlight in the England national team after his stunning performance against Croatia, showing the potential to become one of the greats.
Bellingham Opens New Potential to Become 'One of the Ones
Why this is important
Jude Bellingham's outstanding performance against Croatia confirmed his position as one of the key players in the England national team. By scoring a goal and providing three assists, he not only helped his team achieve a crushing victory, but also demonstrated his ability to lead, especially when wearing the captain's armband. This could be a turning point in his career, changing the public's and coaches' views on his future potential.
Background
Jude Bellingham, who currently plays for Real Madrid, previously had doubts about his position in the England national team. However, after outstanding performances at the World Cup and Nations League, he is now considered one of the best talents who can lead England to future success.
Main Points
- Bellingham Opens New Potential to Become 'One of the Ones.
- Jude Bellingham is now in the spotlight in the England national team after his impressive performance against Croatia, showing the potential to become one of the greats.
- Bellingham unlocks new levels and potential to be 'one of the greatest'.
Bellingham has demonstrated world class with scintillating displays for club and country, but his performance in helping England crush Croatia 7-0 in the Nations League recently suggests he may be reaching new heights. This 23 year old player played an important role in Rijeka, scoring goals and recording a hat-trick of assists. He even ended the match wearing the captain's armband as England inflicted the heaviest defeat in Croatia's history.
"Bellingham could be one of the greatest players of all time," said former Manchester United and Republic of Ireland midfielder Roy Keane after the match. "At the moment, he is an extraordinary footballer. The package he offers – running power, passing and goal threat. The way he has developed as a player, I still believe there is a lot more he can show."
Bellingham was recently declared England's best player for the second year running and is now considered a "clear choice for No. 10" in the future, according to former England defender Matt Upson. Keane added: "He has been fantastic on the ball, but what he does off the ball elevates all the other players. When you have a player that good in your team, who is amazing on the ball and plays for Real Madrid and does great things, but his work ethic off the ball... it will inspire other players. He is a great leader for them."
England's front four deserved praise for the way they broke down the Croatian defence. All-time top scorer Harry Kane scored twice, as did Bukayo Saka, while Anthony Gordon also scored and provided an assist. Kane will be back in the spotlight on Tuesday when he has the chance to equal the all-time England men's appearance record held by Peter Shilton at Wembley.
By scoring 89 goals for his country, the 33-year-old once again showed how irreplaceable he is for England. However, when he was rested 20 minutes from time, Bellingham took the captain's armband, emphasizing the importance of his role as a leader in the squad. Bellingham was also directly involved in more than two goals in an England game for the first time, and he became the first player to register three assists in a game for the Three Lions since Trent Alexander-Arnold against San Marino in November 2021.
Bellingham's performance in front of goal really impressed former England striker, Ian Wright. “When Bellingham is on the field, he always pushes forward and keeps at it,” Wright said. "He's involved in everything. His athleticism, his technical ability, his intensity. He never gives up, the way he gets into the box, he's always there unmarked. He's always there."
Bellingham showed every aspect of his game against Croatia, and Tuchel was asked by BBC Sport whether he had reached a higher level. "Yes, at the moment it seems so, and you always need to be. You can't stand still. You have to develop and push towards the next level, otherwise other teams will catch up," answered Tuchel. The coach, who said the performance was a way to "move on" after the disappointment of England's World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina, added that he "adjusted a few things" after the tournament, giving the players, including Bellingham, "a lot of responsibility". Saka was part of a front four and Bellingham provided the assist for his first goal with a high-quality pass. "He was incredible tonight," Saka said of Bellingham. "He deserved player of the year and also deserved player of the night. He's special. [I'm] happy to play with him and happy to have him in the England team."
What happened next
With this brilliant performance, it is hoped that Bellingham will continue to be England's mainstay in future competitions, including European Cup qualification. The England national team now has high hopes of achieving success, especially with Bellingham showing the ability to contribute significantly in every match. This season, he is expected to be able to bring Real Madrid and England to better achievements at club and international level.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who scored the most goals for England in the World Cup?
Jude Bellingham scored seven goals and became England's top scorer at the World Cup.
What impact will the result of the England vs Croatia match have on the Nations League standings?
England beat Croatia 7-0, inflicting the heaviest defeat in Croatia's history.
When will England play next after playing Croatia?
Information about the next match after Croatia is not available in context.
What did Roy Keane say about Jude Bellingham?
Roy Keane stated that Bellingham could be one of the greatest players of all time and considered him an extraordinary footballer.
What made Bellingham's performance against Croatia special?
Bellingham scored a goal and provided a hat-trick of assists, as well as wearing the captain's armband as England won 7-0.