Jude Bellingham’s outstanding FIFA World Cup campaign has not only reignited excitement over his performances on the pitch but has also reinforced Real Madrid’s belief that the England international is destined to become one of the club’s leading figures.

In the two seasons where injuries and tactical adjustments prevented him from reaching the heights of his debut campaign, Bellingham has rediscovered his best football on the biggest stage.

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His performances for England have convinced those inside Real Madrid that they are witnessing the return of the midfielder they always believed in.

According to AS, it is Bellingham’s leadership as much as his football that has left a lasting impression on the club during the World Cup.

Bellingham’s World Cup resurgence excites Real Madrid

Real Madrid had spent much of the past two seasons trying to understand why Bellingham’s explosive impact from his first year gradually faded.

Bellingham defended his teammates during the World Cup. (Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images for Rexona)

A lingering shoulder injury initially appeared to explain the dip, while later tactical changes made it more difficult for the midfielder to influence matches in advanced areas.

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However, the 2026 FIFA World Cup changed everything. Operating with greater freedom, Bellingham has once again become a key attacking force.

Now under Jose Mourinho, the club hopes that his ability to arrive late in the box, play behind the striker and contribute directly in the final third can play a major role heading into the new season.

Notably, his seven goals at the tournament showed exactly that.

The England international broke James Rodriguez’s long-standing record for the most goals scored by a midfielder in a single FIFA World Cup and even finished ahead of Harry Kane as England’s leading scorer during the competition.

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Qualities that have impressed Real Madrid

Bellingham finished as England’s top scorer. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

While his goals attracted headlines, it was Bellingham’s personality that arguably made the strongest impression inside the Santiago Bernabeu.

According to the report, Real Madrid have been particularly encouraged by the maturity he displayed while leading England throughout the tournament.

Despite being just 23 years old, Bellingham emerged as the team’s emotional leader, regularly taking responsibility in difficult moments and acting as the group’s de facto captain.

One moment that stood out came after England’s quarter-final victory over Norway, when Bellingham publicly defended his teammates following criticism from Thomas Tuchel.

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That willingness to protect the dressing room and embrace responsibility has strengthened the belief within Real Madrid that he possesses the character required to become one of the club’s future leaders both on and off the pitch.