Jude Bellingham Opens Up About Feeling Like a ‘Scapegoat’ After England’s Euro 2024 Final Loss
Jude Bellingham, the 21-year-old midfield sensation for Real Madrid, has revealed that he felt like “a scapegoat” following England‘s heartbreaking Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain. In a candid pre-match press conference ahead of Madrid’s Champions League clash with Liverpool, Bellingham shared how the aftermath of the tournament affected him both personally and professionally. But now, he says, “the smile is back” as he looks forward to brighter days with the national team.
England’s Euro 2024 campaign ended in disappointment, and the fallout was significant. The resignation of former head coach Gareth Southgate left the team in transition, with interim head coach Lee Carsley stepping in for the Nations League games in October and November. During this period, Bellingham delivered standout performances, reminding fans and critics alike of his immense talent. However, the young star admitted that the media scrutiny he faced after the Euros took a toll on him.
“I lost my smile because I felt I was a bit mistreated, compared to what I contributed,” Bellingham said. “I felt a bit of a scapegoat. I hadn’t lost my smile in a Madrid shirt. I’m the luckiest lad in the world. It was more to do with how I was treated off the back of the Euros. But the smile is back.”
Media Scrutiny and Personal Challenges
Bellingham didn’t hold back when discussing the intense criticism he faced after the Euros. “I felt like I contributed some big moments [with England], and it felt like the whole world was crumbling down on me, especially the days after the final,” he explained. The midfielder also addressed accusations that he avoided speaking to the media, which some interpreted as arrogance. “A big criticism was that I didn’t speak to the media; it was reported I felt like I’m above it. But I had some personal things going on.”
He went on to reveal that journalists had even visited his family and grandparents, an invasion of privacy that he found deeply upsetting. “I think that crosses the line of respect. I took that personally and decided to focus on my football. It was personal to me, and I decided to keep my mouth shut.”
Adapting to Changes at Real Madrid
While Bellingham has been a standout performer for Real Madrid, his role on the team has evolved since the arrival of Kylian Mbappé. The Englishman has been playing in a more withdrawn position, a shift that has required some adjustments. “I’ve filled in in positions, to make sacrifices, just like others have,” Bellingham said. “I know where I’m most effective, I’ve relayed that to the coach [Carlo Ancelotti]… but if I’m put in a position, it’s my responsibility to do well to the best of my ability.”
Mbappé, too, has faced challenges adapting to life at Madrid, scoring just two goals in his last eight games. Bellingham came to his teammate’s defense, saying, “Kylian gets a lot of criticism, and it’s a bit over the top for me. I see him in training, and I know he’s only going to get better.”
Looking Ahead: England Under Thomas Tuchel
As England prepares for a new chapter under incoming head coach Thomas Tuchel, Bellingham seems optimistic about the future. The midfielder’s recent performances in the Nations League have been a bright spot for the team, and his renewed confidence could be a game-changer as England looks to rebuild after the Euros.
Key Takeaways
- Bellingham felt unfairly targeted by the media after England’s Euro 2024 final loss.
- He faced personal challenges, including invasive behavior from journalists.
- Despite criticism, Bellingham has continued to shine for Real Madrid and England.
- His role at Madrid has shifted since Mbappé’s arrival, but he remains a key player.
- England’s future under Thomas Tuchel offers a fresh start for the national team.
As for the upcoming Champions League match against Liverpool, Bellingham was tight-lipped about speculation linking his friend and Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid. “He’s a Liverpool player,” Bellingham said. “It’s disrespectful to come to his home today and with the game tomorrow, and say something that could be misconstrued. He’s a good mate of mine… We’ll see what happens.”
With Vinícius Júnior ruled out due to injury, Real Madrid will face a tough test at Anfield. Manager Carlo Ancelotti dismissed criticism over his decision to play Vinícius for 90 minutes against Leganés, saying, “I listen to a lot of advice, but I’ve had 1300 games, I’ve picked 1300 teams and I’ve made 4000 substitutions. Nobody here can give me advice in that sense.”
As the football world watches Bellingham’s every move, one thing is clear: the young star is determined to let his performances on the pitch do the talking.
Originally Written by: Alex Kirkland
