Who Is Jude Bellingham’s Idol? The Footballers He Has Admired
Jude Bellingham’s most frequently cited childhood football idol is Steven Gerrard. The former Liverpool and England captain influenced Bellingham because of his combination of technical ability, leadership, stamina and willingness to affect every part of the game.
Bellingham has also spoken admiringly of Zinedine Zidane, whose career at Real Madrid and role as an elegant, influential midfielder have particular relevance to Bellingham’s own development. These two names are sometimes presented as competing answers, but they reflect different kinds of influence: Gerrard was the boyhood hero, while Zidane represents a major stylistic and historical reference point.
Steven Gerrard was Bellingham’s childhood idol
Gerrard’s appeal to Bellingham went beyond his reputation as a Liverpool great. He was a complete central midfielder who could pass through lines, strike the ball from distance, defend, carry possession and lead a team under pressure. Those qualities closely match the broad responsibilities Bellingham has taken on since moving into senior football.
The comparison does not mean that Bellingham plays in exactly the same way as Gerrard. Gerrard was particularly known for his long-range shooting, direct passing and powerful runs from midfield. Bellingham’s game has developed its own characteristics, including close control in crowded areas, ball carrying, defensive coverage and movement into advanced positions.
Gerrard’s connection with England also made him a natural reference for a young English midfielder. Bellingham grew up watching a player who combined club leadership with an important international role. That example helped shape the idea that a central midfielder can be both a creative outlet and a defensive leader.
Why Zinedine Zidane is also linked to Bellingham
Zinedine Zidane is another major influence associated with Bellingham. Zidane was an outstanding attacking midfielder whose control, balance, awareness and composure made him one of the defining players of his generation. His legacy at Real Madrid became especially relevant after Bellingham joined the Spanish club.
Bellingham’s decision to wear Real Madrid’s number 5 shirt added to the comparison. Zidane wore that number during his time at the club, so the choice carried historical meaning. It should not be treated as proof that Zidane was Bellingham’s only or primary childhood idol, but it does show the significance of Zidane’s legacy in Bellingham’s Madrid story.
The stylistic link is also understandable. Like Zidane, Bellingham can receive the ball under pressure, turn away from opponents and progress play from midfield. Their physiques, positions and eras are different, however, so direct player comparisons have limits. Zidane was a specialist in control and creative orchestration, while Bellingham has developed a more expansive box-to-box role.
What Bellingham’s influences reveal about his position
Gerrard and Zidane represent two different models of elite midfield play. Gerrard’s influence highlights power, range, leadership and direct impact. Zidane’s example emphasises technique, rhythm, composure and the ability to make difficult actions appear simple.
Bellingham’s current profile combines elements of both traditions without copying either player. He can contribute defensively, carry the ball over distance, arrive near the penalty area and create advantages through his first touch. His role may change depending on the coach, formation and players around him, which is why describing him simply as a box-to-box midfielder can be incomplete.
Is Gerrard definitely Bellingham’s only idol?
No. The answer depends on how the word “idol” is being used. When discussing the player he admired while growing up, Gerrard is the clearest answer commonly associated with Bellingham. When discussing footballers who have influenced his image, ambitions or interpretation of midfield play, Zidane is also highly relevant.
Young players normally absorb ideas from several footballers, coaches and teams. Bellingham’s admiration for Gerrard does not require his game to resemble Gerrard’s in every detail, just as his respect for Zidane does not make him a direct replica. The most accurate summary is that Gerrard was his principal childhood hero, while Zidane became an important inspiration connected to his development and Real Madrid career.
