Jude Bellingham’s influence on world football continues to grow. The Real Madrid star had his goal celebration copied by other stars.
Such recognition was previously reserved for players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Marcus Rashford, with Manchester United forwards past and present boasting iconic routines when hitting the back of the net.
The England international now falls into this category, with the 20-year-old midfielder having made a big impression in Spain following his €103 million move to Santiago Bernabéu. He enjoys the respect and adulation of fans and players around the world, with West Ham star Lucas Paqueta the latest to nod to a man many see as a future Ballon d’Or in become.
Brazilian playmaker Paqueta had reason to celebrate after scoring for the Hammers in their Europa League win over Olympiakos. The South American then tagged Bellingham in a social media post titled “Only today my friend”. The Los Blancos star was quick to respond by posting an emoji representing a laughing face and a handshake.
Bellingham has scored 13 goals in 14 appearances for Real Madrid this season and will be hoping to shake off his shoulder injury in time to play for the Spanish giants against Valencia this Saturday, before heading out with England for the qualifiers for Euro 2024 against Malta and North Macedonia.
