Jude Bellingham has been named England Men’s Player of the Year for the 2024-25 campaign, capping another milestone season in what is already proving to be an extraordinary career for the 22-year-old midfielder.
The Real Madrid star finished ahead of Declan Rice and Harry Kane in the supporters’ vote, further underlining his growing influence on the international stage. It marks the first time he has received the honour, and he becomes just the second player in history to win it while representing a club outside of England, following Owen Hargreaves’ success in 2006 during his Bayern Munich days.
Impact on the Three Lions
Bellingham’s influence over England’s fortunes during the past year was clear. He played eight times across Nations League fixtures and the opening stages of World Cup qualification, contributing directly to five goals. His standout moments included scoring against Greece, providing two assists and winning a penalty in the 4-0 win over the Republic of Ireland, and setting up a goal in March against Albania.
Although his season was interrupted by shoulder surgery in July, which sidelined him until September, his consistency and dynamism whenever available proved decisive. The award is also a testament to his importance to England’s midfield, where his composure, vision, and ability to dictate play have elevated Gareth Southgate’s successor Thomas Tuchel’s side.
Bellingham’s Development
Since joining Real Madrid in 2023, Bellingham has matured into one of Europe’s most complete midfielders. At club level, he has already lifted silverware in Spain and earned a reputation for performing in high-pressure matches. His adaptation to life in La Liga has been seamless, while his status as one of Madrid’s leaders has translated into his international displays.
That influence has not gone unnoticed. Interim England manager Lee Carsley relied heavily on him during Nations League promotion, and Tuchel has since built his midfield around the former Birmingham City prodigy. Despite a rocky moment earlier this year—when Tuchel described Bellingham’s on-pitch behaviour as “repulsive” in a live interview—the pair have since reconciled, with the manager offering praise for his star player’s professionalism and quality.
Recognition Among Peers
Bellingham joins a list of recent winners that includes Bukayo Saka, who won back-to-back awards in 2022 and 2023, and Cole Palmer, who claimed it last year. While those players remain vital to England’s setup, it is Bellingham who increasingly looks like the heartbeat of the national side.
His recognition comes at a crucial time. With the World Cup looming next summer, England are preparing for a decisive run of qualifiers against Wales and Latvia in October, fixtures Bellingham is now expected to feature in following his return from injury. His presence could be pivotal as Tuchel looks to establish his strongest XI.
Looking Ahead
At just 22, Bellingham already boasts 44 international caps and experience from three major tournaments. Few players his age can claim such pedigree. More importantly, his ability to seize decisive moments—such as his overhead kick against Slovakia at the Euros last summer—suggests he thrives on the grandest stage.
If England are to end their long wait for a major trophy, Bellingham’s performances will likely play a defining role. He is part of the leadership group in Tuchel’s squad, and his blend of technical brilliance, work rate, and maturity continues to set him apart.
As supporters celebrate his Player of the Year accolade, there is a growing sense that Bellingham could be the man to inspire England to glory next summer. For now, though, his focus will be on regaining sharpness after his layoff and helping England navigate their final steps toward World Cup qualification.
