Real Madrid superstar responds after being booed by fans in World Cup opener: ‘No matter the noise…’ | OneFootball

Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham found himself at the centre of attention during England’s 4-2 victory over Croatia, but this time it was not just because of his performance on the pitch.

The Real Madrid midfielder received a surprising reception before kick-off at AT&T Stadium in Arlington when sections of the crowd booed as his name was announced alongside the England starting line-up. 

The reaction came amid growing debate over his role in Thomas Tuchel’s team, with some questioning whether he should start ahead of Morgan Rogers.

By the final whistle, however, Bellingham had delivered the response he knows best – through his football.

Bellingham answers critics with goal

Despite the pre-match noise surrounding his selection, the 22-year-old played a key role in England’s victory and got himself on the scoresheet as Tuchel’s side secured an impressive result against Croatia.

The goal added another chapter to what has already been an outstanding international career and served as a timely reminder of why Bellingham remains one of England’s most important players.

After the match, the Real Madrid star addressed the criticism that has followed him in recent weeks and admitted it felt satisfying to focus solely on helping his team.

“Personally, it was nice to put some of the noise to one side and simply show my country and my team-mates how committed I am to helping us try to win matches,” he began, as quoted by Mundo Deportivo.

He continued, “Contributing, helping my team and helping my country is one of the greatest honours, and no matter what noise there is out there, that honour doesn’t change for me at all.”

Opening up on recent criticism

Bellingham has rarely hidden from pressure throughout his career, whether at Borussia Dortmund, Real Madrid or with the England national team.

Bellingham was on the scoresheet against Croatia. (Photo by Francois Nel/Getty Images)

Yet the midfielder admitted that some of the recent criticism has affected him, particularly given the public discussion surrounding his place in the starting XI.

Speaking about the situation, he acknowledged feeling frustration at times while remaining determined to use the negativity as motivation.

“I know it’s part and parcel of being a footballer; I don’t hold a grudge against anyone who says bad things about me because sometimes I do deserve it. 

“Today, I think it was nice to try and show people and remind them who I am,” he concluded.