Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham has reportedly expressed his admiration for Barcelona’s playing style under Hansi Flick. According to Catalunya Radio, Bellingham has shared his appreciation for Flick’s tactical approach with friends, highlighting how Barcelona’s players seem to instinctively know their roles.
This revelation comes on the heels of Real Madrid’s struggles against Barcelona in recent Clasico matches. The Catalan giants have beaten Real Madrid twice this season, scoring nine goals in the process. Bellingham’s admiration for Flick’s philosophy has raised eyebrows, particularly given Real Madrid’s own tactical shortcomings.
Real Madrid’s 4-0 loss to Barcelona at the Santiago Bernabéu and their 5-2 defeat in the Spanish Super Cup final have exposed vulnerabilities in Carlo Ancelotti’s system. The Italian manager’s tactical setup has been criticized, and Bellingham’s apparent admiration for Flick’s approach has sparked speculation about the English midfielder’s own thoughts on Real Madrid’s tactics.
Despite the speculation, Bellingham has been in impressive form for Real Madrid, rediscovering his goal-scoring touch after a slow start to the campaign. His performance against RB Salzburg in the Champions League, where he provided two assists, was particularly noteworthy, while his numbers in the Champions League have drawn comparisons to Lionel Messi’s at the same age.
Real Madrid will look to bounce back from their Clasico defeats when they face Real Valladolid in their next La Liga fixture. Barcelona, meanwhile, will host Valencia on Sunday as they aim to regain ground in the league. The two teams’ contrasting fortunes have added fuel to the speculation surrounding Bellingham’s admiration for Flick’s tactics.
As the season unfolds, it remains to be seen whether Bellingham’s apparent admiration for Barcelona’s playing style will have any impact on his future at Real Madrid. One thing is certain, however: the midfielder’s performances will be closely watched, both on and off the pitch.
Barcelona currently trail Real Madrid with 7 points in the La Liga standings with 20 matches played between both sides.
