Jude Bellingham beats Kane and Rice to player of the year award

Jude Bellingham Named Best English Player of the 2024/25 Season

Real Madrid’s midfield maestro, Jude Bellingham, has been crowned the Best English Player for the 2024/25 season, beating strong competition from Arsenal’s Declan Rice and other leading Premier League stars.

At just 22 years old, Bellingham has etched his name into the history books by becoming the first player to win the award while playing outside of England since Owen Hargreaves achieved the feat back in 1996. The recognition highlights not only his consistency at club level but also his growing influence on the international stage with the Three Lions.

Key Contributions for England

Bellingham played a pivotal role in England’s recent resurgence, first under interim manager Lee Carsley during the UEFA Nations League campaign last autumn, and later under new head coach Thomas Tuchel as the team began their journey in the 2026 FIFA World Cup European Qualifiers.

His standout performances included a commanding display in England’s 3–1 victory over Greece at Wembley in October, where he dictated the tempo in midfield, as well as a Player of the Match performance in a 5–0 win over the Republic of Ireland in November. Bellingham’s creativity was equally vital in the qualifiers, where he registered assists in the 2–0 victory over Albania in March—Tuchel’s first game in charge.

Injury Setback and Return Prospects

Despite his success, Bellingham has not yet featured for England this season. He was absent from the squad last month as he recovered from planned surgery on a shoulder injury, but his rehabilitation has gone well. The midfielder is now back in contention and could be named in England’s squad for the upcoming October fixtures against Wales and Latvia.

Rising Star of English Football

Bellingham’s award underlines his exceptional rise from a promising teenager at Birmingham City to one of the most complete midfielders in world football. Since joining Real Madrid, he has flourished on the biggest stages, proving himself in La Liga and the Champions League while maintaining a key role for his national team.

By becoming the first overseas-based English player in nearly three decades to win the honour, Bellingham not only continues to inspire a new generation of English talents but also strengthens his reputation as one of the brightest stars in world football.