“He’ll achieve success and excellence” - Kaka tips Real Madrid superstar to compete for the Ballon d'Or

Former Real Madrid superstar Kaka reckons current Los Blancos midfielder Jude Bellingham could win the Ballon d'Or this year. The 20-year-old Englishman had a fabulous debut season at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Since arriving from Borussia Dortmund, Bellingham became a key first-team regular for Carlo Ancelotti's side. He contributed 23 goals and 13 assists in 42 games across competitions as Los Blancos won the La Liga, Supercopa Espana and UEFA Champions League titles.

Commending the 20-year-old for exuding maturity beyond his years and for his impressive understanding of the game, Kaka said (as per Madrid Xtra):

“Bellingham is amazing. He is a very good player. He is very young but very mature on the pitch. He understands the game very well and does not show signs of nerves that you might expect at this age. He will achieve success and excellence. He will compete for the Ballon d’Or.”

Bellingham will boost his Ballon d'Or credentials if he replicates his Los Blancos form with England at the ongoing European Championship. Gareth Southgate's Three Lions open their campaign for a first major title in 58 years against Serbia in Gelsenkirchen on Sunday (June 16).

How Ballon d'Or winner Kaka fared for Real Madrid

Kaka was one of the best midfielders of his generation, first making his name in club football with AC Milan in the 2000s, helping the Rossoneri to the 2006-07 UEFA Champions League title.

Following his exploits that season, the Brazilian won the Ballon d'Or award that year before he arrived at Real Madrid in the summer of 2009 as a Galactico signing.

However, Kaka's stay at the Bernabeu was blighted by injuries, and he could only provide glimpses of his Milan form, contributing 29 goals and 39 assists in 120 games across competitions in four seasons before leaving in 2013.

Kaka won the 2011-12 La Liga title with Los Blancos, contributing five goals and 10 assists in 27 games. He also won the Copa del Rey with them the previous season.