In his inaugural season with Real Madrid, Jude Bellingham achieved remarkable success, netting 23 goals and providing 13 assists in 42 matches, contributing to his team’s La Liga and Champions League victories. Nonetheless, the 21-year-old found it challenging to replicate that performance for England at Euro 2024, as injuries and fatigue impacted his play.
Bellingham exudes confidence, but this perception shifts when his performances transition from impressive and dominant to lackluster and unremarkable.
Whether justified or not, numerous fans perceived the midfielder as arrogant in some of his media interviews during the tournament. This sentiment has also been shared by certain journalists and pundits, including Richard Keys.
The beIN Sports anchor, known for expressing his views on individual players, has openly criticized Bellingham, suggesting he is not as impressive as advertised. On Friday morning, he accused the Real Madrid star of frequently violating a rule he should follow while playing in Spain. Additionally, Keys lauded Atletico Madrid’s interest in Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher, asserting that it could be one of the summer’s best transfers if it materializes.
“If they go through, McTominay to Fulham and Gallagher to Atletico could be two of the best deals so far,” Keys wrote on X. “However, Gallagher will need to stop cutting holes in his socks. This foolish practice is banned in Spain for everyone—except Bellingham, who arrogantly does whatever he wants. Naturally.”
Keys was referring to the current trend among players of cutting holes in the backs of their socks to relieve pressure on their calves and decrease the risk of cramping and muscle injuries.
Players use brand-new socks that are often tight and restrictive, so cutting holes in them helps improve blood flow and circulation.
La Liga regulations prohibit players from wearing ripped shirts, shorts, or socks, though officials often overlook issues with socks. Many players across Europe, including Gallagher, Bellingham, and Kyle Walker, routinely cut their socks.