Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham has unveiled the backstory of his iconic arms-aloft celebration, which he has consistently showcased throughout his career.
The 20-year-old midfielder has made an extraordinary start to his tenure at the Bernabeu, scoring eight La Liga goals in his first eight matches of the season.
Most of his goals have been marked by his now-famous celebration, in which the Real number five turns towards the crowd with his arms raised.
This celebration has been emulated by other players, and it has even made its way into other sports. Tennis star Carlos Alcaraz, for instance, adopted the celebration after winning a match at the US Open last month.
Bellingham’s influence is indeed being felt worldwide. But what’s the story behind his celebratory gesture, and where did it originate?
The roots of this celebration actually trace back to his time at Birmingham City, the club where Bellingham made his senior debut in 2019.
At just 16 years old, the future England international started his senior career on the left side of midfield, a tactical decision by manager Pep Clotet to help him acclimate to the world of competitive men’s football.
As the season progressed, Bellingham’s growth was so remarkable that he not only became a pivotal figure in the team but was also transitioned into a central midfield role. It became increasingly clear that a high-value transfer was on the horizon.
Where does Jude Bellingham’s celebration come from?
The midfielder scored four times during the 2019/20 campaign, with his first competitive goal coming in a 2-1 win over Stoke in August.
And after scoring the winner against the Potters, Bellingham did so again in the following game, a 1-0 win at Charlton.
🏃♂️ The RUN
🅰️ The PASS
🎯 The FINISHWe were due to play Charlton today, so in its absence, we bring you @BellinghamJude‘s winning goal at the Valley in the reverse fixture. pic.twitter.com/P3FeNaH8ac
— Birmingham City FC (@BCFC) April 18, 2020
From 12 yards out, the youngster fired home Kerim Mrabti’s cross to send the visiting Blues faithful into ecstacy.
Then came the now iconic celebration – Bellingham stood in front of the away end, arms aloft.
What has Jude Bellingham said about his celebration?
And the midfielder has now revealed that his current celebration was born on that day, and admits that, although he doesn’t know exactly where the idea came from, he has used it ever since.
He toldRMTV: “The truth is that I don’t know exactly where it comes from. I started doing it in Birmingham, and from there I have continued it but there is no reason.
“It is a pride that children imitate me.”