“Jude Bellingham walked into my restaurant – this is what he looks like outside of football”

Spanish restaurant workers couldn't believe their eyes when they saw Jude Bellingham eating at their establishment – and they were even more shocked by his gentle demeanour. The Real Madrid maestro missed England's international break as he recovers from a calf injury.

Instead of playing in Lee Carsley's Three Lions first team as caretaker manager, Bellingham took some time out from his recovery to dine at a local restaurant with his mother. While his celebrity status is symbolised by a Ballon d'Or nomination, Bellingham proved he still has his feet firmly on the ground with his choice of venue and his can-do attitude.

He entered a restaurant in one of Madrid's most popular squares and ate among shocked locals and stunned tourists. The restaurant owner couldn't contain his excitement when he saw the 21-year-old.

A bartender at the famous Madrid bar La Buha told Relovo: “We were all panicking. He arrived, asked for a table and we told him there was one available.

Another member of staff also said: “I can't believe a Real Madrid footballer is sitting here like any other person.”

For his meal, Bellingham didn't hesitate to draw inspiration from Spanish classics, including tortilla de patatas, delicious croquettes, exquisite ham and a generous helping of sangria to share with his mother, the Mirror reports. He was also reportedly happy to interact with fans and locals who wanted to pose for a photo with him.

Bellingham has been spotted in Madrid on numerous occasions, but is usually found in the city's more upscale neighborhoods. However, this time, he was spotted exploring some of Madrid's more modest neighborhoods.

Last year, he was also spotted by fans on a busy pedestrian crossing with dozens of other walkers in the Spanish capital. This season, Bellingham has made just two appearances due to a calf injury sustained in the 1-1 draw with Real Mallorca.

The former Birmingham City captain was in the stands for his side's recent 2-0 home win over Real Betis. He did not join the England squad for the Three Lions League games against Ireland and Finland.

Bellingham had an impressive debut season with Los Blancos, contributing 23 goals and 13 assists in 42 appearances in all competitions, finishing the campaign by winning La Liga and the Champions League. Fans are now eagerly awaiting his return to see how he fares alongside Kylian Mbappe, who joined from Paris Saint-Germain in the summer.