Bellingham Praises 'World-Class' Ancelotti For Champions League Triumph

Jude Bellingham commended Carlo Ancelotti for enhancing his game as they celebrated their Champions League victory on Saturday. The England international concluded his debut season in Madrid with both LaLiga and European titles, following a 2-0 win over Borussia Dortmund at Wembley Stadium.

This victory marked Real Madrid's 15th European Cup/UEFA Champions League title, extending their lead over Milan, who have seven. Ancelotti has now won the competition five times, more than any other manager. Three of these victories came while managing Madrid, equalling the record held by Bob Paisley at Liverpool and Zinedine Zidane, also at Madrid.

Bellingham was quick to acknowledge Ancelotti's influence before the celebrations began in London. "He has unlocked a part of my game that I didn't know I had," Bellingham told TNT Sports. "That is the thing about world-class coaches; they make you realise how good you can be. They test the limits of your potential."

We you, @MrAncelotti. #CHAMP15NS pic.twitter.com/lwfKVBbvFD

— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadriden) June 1, 2024

This season's triumph was the sixth for Madrid veterans Toni Kroos, Luka Modric, Dani Carvajal, and Nacho in the Champions League. They now share the record for most titles won by a player in this competition with Paco Gento.

Bellingham acknowledged the challenges of working alongside such experienced players. "Some of my team-mates have five or six titles and they said enjoy your first as it's a feeling like no other when you reach the top of the mountain," he said. "It's important to maintain that level but never forget your first and enjoy it."

Reflecting on the match, Bellingham noted, "They were the better team for the majority but it comes down to moments and if you don't kill us, then it will come back to haunt you."

Following their league and continental double, Real Madrid might soon welcome Kylian Mbappe, who is expected to leave Paris Saint-Germain when his contract expires. Bellingham expressed his enthusiasm about potentially playing alongside Mbappe.

"It would be amazing if a player like him arrived," Bellingham added. "One of the best in the world."