Bellingham admits he has 'disappointed' Ancelotti despite record-breaking form
Cameron Smith
- Updated: 4 Dec 2023 13:07 GMT
- 3 min read
Jude Bellingham has praised Carlo Ancelotti's impact on his record-breaking start at Real Madrid, but has admitted that he has “disappointed” the Italian due to the fact he doesn't speak Spanish.
Bellingham, 20, joined Los Blancos for €103 million from Borussia Dortmund during the summer and he has 15 goals and four assists in his first 17 appearances for his new club.
Following his strike against Cadiz on November 26, Bellingham broke a goal-scoring record previously held by Cristiano Ronaldo and Alfredo Di Stefano.
The legendary Real Madrid pair had both scored 13 goals in their first 15 games for the club, but Bellingham went one better by notching 14 times in the same number of matches.
His goal-scoring exploits have come in an advanced attacking midfield role, with Ancelotti giving the England international full freedom to attack the penalty area and arrive in dangerous areas.
Bellingham’s form in 2023 has seen him win both the Kopa Trophy and the Golden Boy award, with the former in association with the Ballon d’Or and the latter awarded by Italian newspaper Tuttosport.
In an interview with the Italian outlet, Bellingham expressed his gratitude to Los Blancos head coach Ancelotti, while also admitting one thing that has disappointed his manager.
What has Bellingham said?
“I’ve had a ferocious commitment to improving myself with hard work, but the credit goes to coach Ancelotti who has found the right position for me, giving me more freedom, so I’m flying now,” Bellingham said. “However, I know I am disappointing him in one aspect.”
When asked to elaborate, the Birmingham City academy graduate admitted: “I still don’t speak Spanish. I am sorry but I am finding obstacles I didn’t expect with this language. I admit it’s difficult for me, but I promise maximum commitment.”
JUDE BELLINGHAM AGAIN! 🤩
He heads home his 15th goal of the season 🔥 pic.twitter.com/gxfmJfmMs7— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) November 29, 2023
Bellingham added: “I am a person who loves to compete and is ambitious. So now that I have the prestigious Golden Boy in my hands I want to move forward quickly: I hope that this award will be a launching pad to win many other trophies."
Real Madrid are currently top of La Liga (ahead of Girona on goal difference), while they have secured qualification to the Champions League last-16 too. They are one of only two teams, along with Manchester City, to have a 100% record from the opening five group stage games in the competition.
