Jude Bellingham sets a historic record in the Champions League

Jude Bellingham set a record as the youngest player in history to achieve 50 Champions League matches at 22 years old, overtaking the legend Iker Casillas.

Jude Bellingham continued to affirm his status as a leading star of the new generation by reaching a historic milestone during Real Madrid’s 0-1 defeat against Liverpool at Anfield.

At 22 years and 4 months old, the English midfielder became the youngest player ever to reach 50 Champions League appearances, breaking a record that had stood for over two decades held by legend Iker Casillas.

Previously, Casillas, a former Real Madrid icon, reached the same milestone at 22 years, 5 months, and 2 days old, while he was the first-choice goalkeeper for “Los Blancos” in the early 2000s.

By surpassing his predecessor, Bellingham not only rewrites Real Madrid’s history but also establishes himself as a prominent figure among the talented young generation dominating European football.

According to statistics, the top 5 youngest players to reach 50 Champions League matches also include Kylian Mbappé (22 years 11 months), Rodrygo (23 years 3 months) both from Real Madrid, along with Cesc Fàbregas (22 years 10 months) when he played for Arsenal and Barcelona. This highlights that the Spanish royal club continues to be a cradle for talents who shine early on Europe’s most prestigious stage.

Bellingham made his Champions League debut in 2020 with Borussia Dortmund in a match against Lazio. Over three seasons with the Bundesliga club, he made 23 appearances before transferring to Real Madrid in the summer of 2023.

Bellingham’s performance at Real Madrid is demonstrated not only through goals and assists but also through his ability to control the midfield, lead the play, and show relentless fighting spirit.

After 50 Champions League matches, the English midfielder has directly contributed to 27 goals, with 14 goals scored and 13 assists, an impressive figure for a 22-year-old player who usually plays in midfield.

Bellingham has been honored as the Best Young Player in the Champions League and included in the 2023-2024 Season’s Best XI.

These awards are just well-deserved recognition for his continuous improvement, as he combines sharp tactical thinking with rare leadership qualities at such a young age.