It was an excellent display from the Englishman and, according to Diario AS, it looks like he has made quite an impression.
Bellingham is said to have returned in outstanding physical condition after his vacation due to the work he put in during the off-season.
Bellingham’s vacation work paying off
The preparation is already translating into performances on the pitch.
Bellingham produced an excellent all-round performance in Madrid’s 4-1 win over the Basque club, showing a lot of energy, intensity and tenacity.
The 23-year-old won more duels than anyone else on the pitch with nine, completed the most dribbles with three and registered four recoveries.
Real Madrid are quite impressed with Jude Bellingham’s physical condition. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
His work with the ball was equally impressive. Bellingham completed 95.2% of his passes and 92.3% in the final third, creating four chances.
It was this combination of technical quality on the ball and the physical bite off the ball that made his performance so encouraging.
Mourinho even highlighted Bellingham’s condition after the game, praising his ability to maintain his intensity deep into the match.
Mourinho profiles Bellingham perfectly
Bellingham’s improved physical conditioning has been complemented by Jose making an important tactical change.
Mourinho sees him primarily as a No. 10 and wants the English star to operate close to the opposition penalty area.
The midfielder is still afforded the freedom to drop deeper and participate in build-up when necessary, but his starting position is much more offensive.
This approach seems to be paying dividends, with Bellingham registering goal contributions in both games so far.
A major figure in Mourinho’s plans
Bellingham was fantastic against Real Sociedad. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
There is also an appreciation of what Bellingham offers apart from his attacking numbers.
His natural game allows him to press aggressively and contribute defensively without sacrificing his influence around the box.
The Vinicius goal against Sociedad was all Bellingham, who showed tenacity to win the ball inside the box seconds after he lost it and set the Brazilian up.
The 23-year-old is the rare breed of superstar who is willing to work his socks off for the team, and that is something Mourinho will value.
The Portuguese manager also views Bellingham as an important dressing-room leader despite not being among the team’s official captains .
After a difficult 2025-26 campaign, it does look like Bellingham is determined to rediscover his best level for Madrid.
The work behind the renaissance is just the beginning, and Jose and Madrid will hope that the Englishman can continue to impress in the coming months.
Real MadridJude BellinghamWorld CupUnited StatesLa LigaAfterLos BlancosBellinghamMadrid’sReal SociedadEnglishmanDiario AS
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