Jude Bellingham Can Become One of the Greatest Players Ever, Says Roy Keane

England star Jude Bellingham orchestrated a 7-0 victory over Croatia in Rijeka, scoring once and providing three assists during a dominant UEFA Nations League display that prompted pundits to tip the 23-year-old for all-time greatness.

Jude Bellingham Shines in 7-0 UEFA Nations League Rout Over Croatia

Bellingham delivered a standout display by scoring one goal and setting up three others to help Thomas Tuchel’s side overpower the 14th-ranked hosts. The victory marked Croatia’s biggest defeat. Captain Harry Kane and Bukayo Saka each scored twice, while Anthony Gordon added another goal and an assist in a formidable attacking performance.

Roy Keane and Thomas Tuchel Praise Bellingham Leadership and Evolution

The performance drew lofty praise from pundits and coaching staff alike. Sky Sports pundit Roy Keane asserted that Bellingham possesses the capability to become one of the greatest players in football history. England manager Thomas Tuchel concurred that Bellingham has elevated his game to a new level, though he emphasized that players can never stand still in professional football.

Teammates also lauded the midfielder’s impact on the pitch. Bukayo Saka described Bellingham as special and stated that he fully deserved his man-of-the-match honors, while Harry Kane emphasized the fluidity and freedom of England’s front four. When Kane was substituted with 20 minutes remaining, Bellingham assumed the captain’s armband, underlining his growing authority within the national setup.

Bellingham Records Three Assists in Win over Croatia

The commanding win in Rijeka follows a period of tactical adjustment under Tuchel following England’s World Cup semi-final exit against Argentina. Against Croatia, Bellingham became the first England player to record three assists in a single match since Trent Alexander-Arnold accomplished the feat against San Marino in November 2021.

The fixture itself took place under unusual circumstances due to a stadium ban imposed by UEFA on the Croatian Football Federation following fan misconduct in Paris last March. While adult supporters were barred from entry, UEFA regulations permitted thousands of local schoolchildren and their supervisors to fill the stands, creating a unique atmosphere for the Group match.

Upcoming Fixture Against the Czech Republic

England returns to action when the team hosts the Czech Republic at Wembley Stadium. The upcoming fixture places record goalscorer Harry Kane back in the spotlight as the 33-year-old forward can equal Peter Shilton’s all-time England men’s appearance record.