Carlo Ancelotti claims Jude Bellingham's 'genetics' are main reason behind Real Madrid & England superstar's meteoric rise to the top

The England international made his senior debut at Birmingham when aged just 16. His potential was quickly acquired by Borussia Dortmund, before moving to Santiago Bernabeu in a nine-figure transfer deal during the summer of 2023.

Bellingham enjoyed a dazzling debut campaign in Spain, helping Real to La Liga and Champions League crowns when posting 23 goals across all competitions – while also landing the prestigious Kopa Trophy and Golden Boy awards.

There has been talk of Bellingham picking up the Ballon d’Or at some stage, with Ancelotti telling reporters when asked about the impact that the 20-year-old has made for global heavyweights Real: “It was a surprise, but the merit is in his genetics. At only 21 years old he has shown character and great passion, and he also has genetics in his favour. The champion is a champion because of his genetics, training certainly helps, but above all it's about genetics.”

Bellingham produced more flashes of brilliance for England at Euro 2024, with one stunning overhead kick goal helping them to another final, but he struggled for consistency at that event and will be hoping to hit the ground running in 2024-25 after enjoying a well-earned break.