Bellingham was commended by Gary Neville for turning down a transfer to Manchester United
In 2020, Jude Bellingham, the then 17-year-old English talent, made a pivotal career move from his hometown club Birmingham to Borussia Dortmund for a transfer fee of 30 million euros. Interestingly, before opting for the German side, Bellingham was on the verge of joining Manchester United. Gary Neville, the legendary Manchester United defender, revealed that he had recommended the “Red Devils” to Bellingham in a conversation with Sky Sports.
Reflecting on the decision, Neville remarked, “You think of Jude Bellingham, and I think of that quite a lot. United had agreed on a fee with Birmingham, and so had Dortmund. He had the choice between Dortmund and United. Somehow, he chose Borussia Dortmund, and now he’s recognized as one of the greatest players in the world and one of the most promising English talents.”
Neville expressed uncertainty about how Bellingham’s career would have unfolded at Manchester United, stating, “What would have happened to him if he had come here? I don’t know. Maybe he would have been a success because he’s that good. I’m not so sure in the current environment and culture and what’s been happening.”
During his time with Borussia Dortmund from 2020 to 2023, Bellingham showcased his skills in 132 matches, contributing with 24 goals and 25 assists. In the summer of the previous year, he made a high-profile move to Real Madrid. In La Liga, Bellingham made an immediate impact, scoring 13 goals and providing two assists. This outstanding performance placed him second in the “goals + assists” rankings in La Liga, just behind Girona’s forward Artem Dovbyk.
Adding to his accolades, Bellingham was honored with the Kopa Trophy, recognizing him as the best young player under 21.
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