“He’s Going to Be the Next Zidane”: Bellingham Causes Internet Meltdown After Real Madrid Debut

• Jude Bellingham made his long-awaited debut for Real Madrid in pre-season
• The 20-year-old played a key role in his side's 3-2 win over AC Milan
• His debut appearance has sparked comparisons with his idol, Zinedine Zidane

Jude Bellingham sent social media into a frenzy with a sensational display on his Real Madrid debut.

Thrown into action by Carlo Ancelotti during Madrid's first pre-season match, the young midfielder adapted seamlessly, contributing to their comeback victory against AC Milan on July 24.

Bellingham's impressive performance saw him dominate the midfield effortlessly, as he confidently held his ground for 63 minutes before being substituted for Nico Paz, per the BBC.

Following his outstanding debut, the English prodigy garnered a deluge of praise, including accolades from seasoned manager Ancelotti himself.

"Jude Bellingham? He's a fantastic player. He's very important. He's a complete midfielder. Very good without the ball. He's unique, extraordinary," he said, as quoted by MadridXtra on Twitter.

Bullish De Laurentiis keen to keep hold of Napoli stars

Football

How fans reacted

Ancelotti was not the only one impressed with Bellingham's performance, as fans trooped to social media to lavish praise on the 20-year-old midfielder:

@Yessinelboch was incredibly confident in the abilities of Bellingham and predicted:

"He's going to be the next Zidane."

@MagicalModric00 wrote:

"Jude Bellingham ball, guys! Watch out, because this man will be on fire this season!"

@Babygurlnewn added:

"Jude is here to reign in the greatest club ever."

Without hesitation, a devout Madrid fan, @Modric_D_Madrid, claimed:

"Already better than Pedri."

@DritonMadridis1 was astounded:

"What a player he is."

Two stars helping Bellingham cope

In a related article, Bellingham has spoken about how he has been able to cope and adjust to Spanish culture after completing his first week of training as a Madridsta.

The 20-year-old midfielder has named two players who have helped him settle quite seamlessly into the requirements and rudiments of Spanish culture.

Martinez glad to join Barca after suffering against them

Football

Bellingham hailed Lucas Vazquez and Brahim Diaz as the two Los Blancos players who have been teaching him Spanish, Sports Brief reported.

Bellingham causes Clasico stir

Sports Brief also reported that Jude Bellingham might have just stirred the hornet's nest with a subtle dig at El Clasico rivals Barcelona.

Despite his youth, the Englishman has never shied away from making audacious statements, and he aimed a subtle dig at Barca in anticipation of their highly-awaited pre-season encounter in the United States.