The midfielder Jude Bellingham was presented this Thursday at the sports complex of Real Madrid, in Valdevebas, Spain. The Englishman underwent medical examinations and chose the number 5 shirt, the old number that Zidane wore during his time at the Whites.
“I admire Zidane a lot and it is a number that inspires me. I don’t want to be like him, because I’m different, I’m delighted to wear this number. It’s an honor”, said the player, avoiding comparisons with the French star.
Until then, Bellingham had a special connection with the 22. The 19-year-old wore this jersey to Borussia Dortmund and even had his number retired at Birmingham City, the team for which he was revealed. However, the new signing from Real opted for the 5 because his preferred number was already being used by defender Antonio Rüdiger.
🤩👕 It’s official… our new 5️⃣ already has a name!
🤍 @BELLINGHAMJUDE#HeyJude | @adidasfootball pic.twitter.com/FwWKXiHoGL— Real Madrid CF (@realmadrid) June 15, 2023
Signed as another piece of the Madrid club’s renovation, Bellingham also spoke of the expectation of playing alongside Luka Modric and Toni Kroos in midfield. The team is going through a transition phase and this could be the duo’s last season in the Spanish capital.
“For me it’s a priceless experience. Their experience is incredible and I’ll try to stay with them for the first few weeks, I hope they don’t mind. We have a great mix of experience and youth,” he said.
Hired for 103 million euros (about R$ 536 million in current quotation), Bellingham was one of the most valued names in the ball market until then. Vini Jr’s new companion and Rodrygo signed until 2029 and will earn 11 million euros a year.
Source: Gazetaesportiva
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