Premier League icon slams critics for unfair treatment of Real Madrid talisman – ‘They hate that they can’t reach him’ | OneFootball

Jude Bellingham’s competitive edge once again became a talking point in England’s 2–0 victory over Albania, but this time the backlash from the local media prompted a strong defence from one of the country’s most respected voices. 

The Real Madrid midfielder was making his first England start since June after injuries and rotation had disrupted his international run. 

With the team cruising towards a straightforward win, few expected the evening to generate controversy until Bellingham reacted to his late substitution.

What’s the story?

Having been one of seven changes from the previous match against Serbia, Bellingham was withdrawn with six minutes left on the clock. 

When he spotted Morgan Rogers preparing to replace him moments after England’s second goal, he threw his arms in the air in frustration. 

It was a display of intensity that Thomas Tuchel did not particularly appreciate, and the England manager made that clear after the match. 

The reaction opened the door for the English media to accuse the 22-year-old of sloppiness and immaturity, a criticism that many felt was exaggerated.

Defence from Ian Wright

Jude Bellingham was taken off against Albania. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

The narrative quickly shifted when Ian Wright, one of England’s most influential football voices, stepped forward to offer his perspective. 

Wright made it clear that the criticism heading Bellingham’s way had more to do with media behaviour than the player himself. 

“They need to create this kind of controversy because there is nothing else to say until the World Cup, so it’s going to continue like this until the World Cup.”

He went on to argue that the sensationalised treatment reflected a long-standing pattern of targeting the country’s biggest talents.

“They hate the fact that they can’t reach him. They hate the fact that they can’t negatively influence his club career like they’ve done with so many others before him. 

“A young man blessed, endowed with overflowing talent and love,” he noted (h/t Madrid Zone)

With the World Cup approaching, the Real Madrid midfielder remains one of England’s most important players and his passion, rather than his reactions, could ultimately define his impact.