Jude Bellingham’s 2025/26 season has come under focus after another poor showing for Real Madrid.

Real were 2-0 up against third tier CF Talavera in the Copa del Rey when Bellingham came on and they soon fell to bits, eventually stumbling to a 3-2 victory.

Pointing the finger at the Englishman, AS editor Tomas Roncero said: “He caused the 2-3 and all the problems Real Madrid had at the end.

“It was the typical situation of a star player who comes on and thinks, ‘Damn, what a drag to have to sit out 20 minutes now in Talavera.’

“This Bellingham is unrecognizable to me. He’s unfocused, and it’s a shame because we’re wasting a world-class player,” he lamented.

Roncero was previously one of Bellingham’s most prominent supporters, but explained what has changed.

“It’s hard to accept, I once saw him as the new Zidane,” he added.

“He had the excuse that his shoulder was badly damaged, but he had surgery, was free of that problem, and since he reappeared…

“While he was out, Güler started in that position and Real Madrid strung together several consecutive victories with Xabi Alonso. It was precisely when he returned to the team that the problems returned.

“Of course, Bellingham isn’t a problem, but it’s clear that this Bellingham isn’t the same as he was two years ago.”