Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso described Jude Bellingham as “one of the most complete players in the world” after the Englishman found the net in a narrow Champions League victory over Juventus.
The 22-year-old had endured a challenging start to the campaign, featuring only three times from the start and making four substitute appearances following his recovery from a shoulder problem. Before facing Juve, Bellingham had played just ten minutes in Europe this season and had not scored since the Club World Cup in the summer.
His breakthrough came midway through the second half when he reacted quickest to turn in a rebound after Vinicius Jr’s effort struck the post. Alonso said he was impressed not only with the goal but also with the midfielder’s overall contribution, praising his energy, competitiveness, and ability to influence play across the pitch.
“He’s giving such good sensations,” said Alonso. “He’s competitive, creates danger, and shows why he’s one of the most complete players anywhere.”
Real dominate after slow start
Juventus began brightly and forced Thibaut Courtois into two early stops, but Real soon took control, firing 14 attempts before the break. Kylian Mbappé tested Michele Di Gregorio with a fierce drive, though neither side managed to score in the opening half.
After the interval, Dusan Vlahovic nearly put Juve in front on a quick counter, yet it was Vinicius Jr’s footwork inside the area that sparked the decisive move leading to Bellingham’s goal.
The result ensured Alonso’s side kept their perfect record in the group stage, collecting three wins from three. Juventus, meanwhile, remain winless and sit deep in the standings after another frustrating evening.
Bellingham’s difficult recovery and return
Since arriving in 2023, Bellingham has become central to Madrid’s success, helping them capture both the Champions League and La Liga titles in his debut season with 23 goals and 13 assists.
Last season, he maintained his influence with 15 goals and 15 assists in all competitions, consistently producing decisive moments from midfield. However, this term began differently. A lingering shoulder injury, first sustained against Rayo Vallecano in 2023, required surgery and ruled him out of preseason and the opening five fixtures.
His gradual return saw limited minutes under Alonso as he worked toward full fitness. The injury also prevented him from being selected by Thomas Tuchel for England’s World Cup qualifying squads, though the midfielder had expressed a wish to return to international action.
With the World Cup on the horizon next year, Bellingham will be eager to regain top form and reestablish himself as a key figure for both club and country.
Madrid eye Liverpool test
Courtois praised his teammate’s impact, highlighting the understanding between Bellingham and Vinicius Jr in creating the winning goal. “Jude’s getting back to his best,” said the goalkeeper. “He played a top match tonight, and we probably deserved another goal.”
Real Madrid will now look to continue their flawless European run when they visit Liverpool at Anfield on 4 November.
