“I had a strong personality, having fights at 17 with Alan Shearer” - Fabregas on whether Jude Bellingham is better than him aged 20
Former Spanish international Cesc Fabregas responded to whether Jude Bellingham, 20, is better than he was at the same age. The Real Madrid midfielder is often considered one of the best young players in the game.
Fabregas, who turned out for Arsenal, Barcelona and Chelsea believes Bellingham is a special talent and discussed the young midfielder in a BBC interview. When asked who was better at 20, the Spaniard said:
“It’s difficult to say, isn’t it? I started very young, I had a big impact at Arsenal playing Champions League finals also at 19 years old.
"I won the Euros at 21, FA Cups, fighting for leagues and being part of the Invincibles, even though I didn’t play, competing (with them) and experiencing it all.
The FIFA World Cup-winning midfielder talked about his personality as well:
“I also had a strong personality, having fights at 17 years old with Alan Shearer and (Teddy) Sheringham. But yes, Jude is fantastic. (He has) personality, courage. He wants the ball, and I can see that he is hungry.
Fabregas concluded by admitting that Jude Bellingham is truly special for his age:
“The impact that he has had at this age is not normal. For this reason, I would put him in the same bracket of the Rooneys, Messis and Cristianos at that age.”
Jude Bellingham will hope to add to his growing list of accomplishments. The Real Madrid midfielder is competing at Euro 2024 with England, hoping to end his country's 58-year wait for international glory.
Jude Bellingham and England out to reach Euro 2024 knockouts
Jude Bellingham and England face Slovenia in their final group game of Euro 2024, knowing a win will confirm them as Group C winners. The Three Lions will be keen to return to winning ways after their disappointing 1-1 draw with Denmark in their previous game.
England came into Euro 2024 as one of the favourites to win the competition but have failed to impress in Germany. Stars like Bellingham and Harry Kane have been expected to lead the line. While both have found the back of the net, the Three Lions only have those two goals in as many games.
Bellingham and Co. will be keen to put on a strong performance in their next game to justify their tag as favourites.