Guardiola BellinghamGetty

Pep Guardiola explains key difference that makes 'brilliant' Jude Bellingham stand out for Man City's Champions League opponents Real Madrid

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Article continues below

  • Guardiola explains what makes Bellingham stand out
  • City coach praises midfielder's brain
  • England star has scored 20 goals this season
  • WHAT HAPPENED?

    City were interested in signing Bellingham last season but Real Madrid beat them to the punch after paying Borussia Dortmund €103m (£88m/$111m) for the England international.

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    THE BIGGER PICTURE

    Bellingham has exceeded all expectations at Madrid, scoring 20 goals in all competitions, and will be one of the main threats City face when they take on Los Blancos in Tuesday's Champions League quarter-final first leg.

  • WHAT GUARDIOLA SAID

    "He played when he was 17 with Dortmund and I said with not just his skills but the difference is what he has in his brain and his mind," Guardiola told a press conference. "He came to this club with exceptional players and manager like Carlo [Ancelotti] who has the incredible ability to know the best position and Carlo found it so he clicked quick. He's done an incredible season in terms of goals, assists, his presence in the box. Not just Madrid but with the England national team he has been brilliant. At just 19, 20 , he has a long career ahead of him."

  • Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid CF celebratesGetty Images

    WHAT NEXT FOR BELLINGHAM?

    Madrid will be seeking for revenge for last year's semi-final tie with City, when they were thrashed 4-0 by Guardiola's side. The second leg at the Etihad Stadium is on April 16.