Jude Bellingham explains controversial Real Madrid number change, quashing bold Zidane theory

Birmingham City retired Jude Bellingham’s number 22 squad number when he left St Andrew’s in 2020 as it was significant, while uncommon.

The reason behind the selection being a mathematical addition of the midfielder’s well-roundedness as a number four, eight, or 10, the 22 has plenty of meaning.

Upon Bellingham’s arrival at Real Madrid, however, he’s controversially opted against taking his usual 22 jersey, instead going with the number five.

Many have jumped on the decision by claiming the youngster has only done so to become the next Zinedine Zidane, but Bellingham has quashed that theory.

“I’m not trying to be Zidane, I’m just trying to be Jude,” Bellingham said in his Madrid unveiling. “It definitely is a homage to how great he was,” he did admit, however.

“It’s a big honour to follow in [Zidane’s] footseps and wear his number. He was an amazing person to meet who was amazing with my family, so I have a lot of respect for him.”

The Blues academy graduate paid tribute to his previous clubs as he looked ahead with excitement at joining what he claims is the biggest club in the world.

“Thank you for everyone for joining me on the proudest day of my life. The day where I joined the greatest football club in the history of the game,” Bellingham said.

“There are a lot of people to thank for getting me to this point – Borussia Dortmund and Birmingham City, the people that worked there.

“Also the bosses here (at Real Madrid); Mr President (Florentino Perez), Juni Calafat (scout), Jose Angel (chief executive).

“Of course, most importantly, my family for all of the support and making the deal as easy as possible, so thank you very much and finally, Hala Madrid,” Bellingham continued.

In other news, Birmingham are set to receive a windfall fee for the British record transfer and are closing in on splashing some of the cash.