Jude Bellingham has elevated his performance to a new level, with his latest display for England sparking comparisons to the greatest players in football history. During England’s 7-0 Nations League demolition of Croatia in Rijeka, the 23-year-old midfielder was instrumental, delivering a goal and a hat-trick of assists. This feat made him the first England player to record three assists in a single game since Trent Alexander-Arnold against San Marino in November 2021. But the way he helped England to dismantle Croatia 7-0 in the Nations League on Saturday looked like someone perhaps reaching a new level, he has already shown that he is world class with starring performances for club and country. The way he is progressing as a player, I still think there is a lot more to come from him.
This performance marks a significant turnaround from just a year ago, when Bellingham’s place in the Three Lions squad was uncertain. Following his exclusion from Thomas Tuchel’s roster in October 2025, questions persisted about his role under the German coach. However, Bellingham responded by becoming England’s top scorer at the recent World Cup with seven goals, helping the team reach the semi-finals and secure a third-place finish.
Reflecting on the victory, manager Thomas Tuchel noted that he had adjusted his tactical approach following the World Cup, opting to grant players like Bellingham greater responsibility. “You have to develop and you have to push for the next level, otherwise other teams will catch up,” Tuchel stated when asked if the midfielder had unlocked a new tier of performance. The coach highlighted the win as a way to move forward after their semi-final exit against Argentina.
Former Manchester United midfielder Roy Keane praised Bellingham’s comprehensive skill set, describing him as a potential “greatest of all time.” Keane specifically noted that while his technical ability and goal threat are elite, it is his work rate off the ball that sets him apart and inspires his teammates. “He has been fantastic in possession, but what he does out of possession lifts all these other players,” Keane remarked. He is an amazing footballer, at this moment in time. His delivery, his goal threat, the package – his running power.
Bellingham’s influence was underscored when he took the captain’s armband after Harry Kane was substituted in the 70th minute. Kane, who scored twice in the match, remains a vital leader, but the leadership transition highlighted the rising prominence of the Real Madrid star. Bukayo Saka, who also netted two goals, lauded his teammate, describing him as “special” and praising his contributions to the squad. The 33-year-old again showed how irreplaceable he is for England, but, when he was rested with 20 minutes to go, it was Bellingham who took the captain’s armband, in moving to 89 goals for his country. And that highlighted the younger man’s importance as a leader within the squad.
The victory was a collective effort for England’s front four, which also included Anthony Gordon, who contributed a goal and an assist. This dominant display set the stage for upcoming fixtures, including England’s match against the Czech Republic at Wembley, where Kane will have the opportunity to equal Peter Shilton’s all-time appearance record of 125 caps. England’s front four will share praise for the way in which they demolished the Croatian backline.
Analyst Matt Upson noted that Bellingham, who was recently named England’s player of the year for the second consecutive time, has now firmly established himself in the number 10 role. Ian Wright echoed these sentiments, highlighting the midfielder’s relentless intensity and movement. “When Bellingham is on the pitch, he is always driving forward and going again and again,” Wright said, emphasizing his athleticism and tactical intelligence. According to bellingham, recently voted England’s player of the year for the second year in a row, is now “nailed on as the 10” for the future, former England defender Matt Upson, Radio 5 Live.
By inflicting the heaviest defeat in Croatia’s history, the England squad demonstrated a refined cohesion. Bellingham’s involvement in more than two goals for the first time in an England shirt serves as a testament to his evolving role. As the team continues to integrate these tactical adjustments, Bellingham’s form remains a cornerstone of England’s offensive strategy moving toward future tournaments.
