Jude Bellingham brutally torn by Spanish media as Real Madrid decision turns sour

The honeymoon period in Madrid looks set to be well and truly over for Jude Bellingham after his weekend outburst. The England international played 90 minutes as Real won 2-1 at Celta Vigo, but failed to find the net as their barren start to the season continued.

And his frustration was underlined when he vented his anger at team-mate Vinicius Jnr, with Bellingham lambasting the Brazilian for shooting on goal in the second half when the 21-year-old was unmarked at the far post.

At this stage last year, the midfielder had 10 club goals to his name, eventually finishing with 23, which saw him play an instrumental role in Real's successes in La Liga and the Champions League .

However, he is yet to score in nine matches during the 2024/25 campaign and has only picked up three assists. And after being praised by the media during his first season, the former Borussia Dortmund player suddenly faces strong criticism.

Spanish point of sale Marca now mocked for his signature goal celebration for club and country, where Bellingham stands and raises his arms towards the crowd. “The image of Madrid's number 5 celebrating goals with open arms has become common,” they wrote.

“The Bernabeu has made it a ritual. He has now “crossed his arms” and has not opened them since May 14, the date of his last goal with Real Madrid. He berates himself about the goals and can't settle the score.

Bellingham's desperation was also evident in the Champions League match against Stuttgart last month, where he won the ball with the apparent intention of taking a penalty. This was despite new signing Kylian Mbappe appearing to have been saddled with responsibility straight away, although no dispute materialized given the penalty decision was duly overturned by VAR.

Manager Carlo Ancelotti has defended the star's form, arguing his role in the team has changed this season following Mbappe's arrival. And he refuted suggestions there were problems between Bellingham and Vinicius despite their on-field spats.

“I didn’t see it, but if he got angry, it’s because he has courage and character,” the Italian said after the victory. “After the match I saw them laughing, I don’t think they will have any problems.”

Bellingham was at least on track during the international break, scoring in the 2-1 Nations League defeat to Greece. It was his sixth goal for his country, and his first since the spectacular overhead kick against Slovakia at Euro 2024.

And the stage is set for the Birmingham City academy product to silence the doubters this weekend when Real Madrid host Barcelona in the final battle of El Classico. It was against Barca 12 months ago where Bellingham scored twice, including a 92nd minute winner from long range.