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Pep Guardiola explains key difference that makes ‘brilliant’ Jude Bellingham stand out for Man City’s Champions League opponents Real Madrid
Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola has unveiled the one quality that sets Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham apart as one of the world’s premier players.
City had expressed interest in signing Bellingham last season, but Real Madrid secured his services by paying Borussia Dortmund €103m (£88m/$111m) for the English international.
Bellingham’s performance at Madrid has surpassed all expectations, with 20 goals across all competitions. He is poised to be one of the primary threats Manchester City will encounter in the upcoming Champions League quarter-final first leg against Los Blancos.
“He played when he was 17 with Dortmund and I said with not just his skills but the difference is what he has in his brain and his mind,” Guardiola told a press conference.
“He came to this club with exceptional players and manager like Carlo [Ancelotti] who has the incredible ability to know the best position and Carlo found it so he clicked quick. He’s done an incredible season in terms of goals, assists, his presence in the box. Not just Madrid but with the England national team he has been brilliant. At just 19, 20 , he has a long career ahead of him.”
Madrid will be eager to seek revenge for last year’s semi-final defeat against City, where they were convincingly defeated 4-0 by Guardiola’s side. The second leg at the Etihad Stadium is scheduled for April 16th, adding to the anticipation and intensity of the upcoming clash between the two teams.