Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso is thrilled to coach Jude Bellingham after he scored the decisive goal in the 1-0 victory over Juventus in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday, Afrosport reports.
It was the first goal of the season for the England midfielder who missed the start of the campaign due to recovery from shoulder surgery he had after the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States.
It has led to questions of how Bellingham can be a regular scorer like in his first season at the Santiago Bernabeu when he finished a top scorer with 23 goals in 42 competitions. Alonso is however confident the former Borussia Dortmund player will improve.
“I think that we have seen a pretty good example in the second half: he has been involved in the game for very important phases of the game,” the Spaniard said after the match.
“In the first half the space was really tight and it was not easy to find that gap, but he’s working every day and he’s eager to learn, eager to improve.
“That’s the main thing. And after it’s a process, hopefully we can help him develop. I’m thrilled I’m coaching Jude.”
Meanwhile, Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois said it was important for Bellingham to score because of how vital his presence is to the team.
“It is important. I wouldn’t say he needed it because he has scored many goals in the last two years and he wants to keep scoring,” the Belgian stated.
“His arrival has been great after the pass from Vini. He’s important because he helps us a lot with his physique and his talent. The more players involved, the better for our team.”
🫲 THERE IT IS 🫱 pic.twitter.com/i3n8arpMO7
— Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) October 22, 2025
Los Blancos will turn their attention to the crunch El Clasico tie with fierce rivals Barcelona on Sunday.
