Former Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos says Jude Bellingham has the ability to become the best midfielder in the world once he returns to full fitness and rediscovers his best form.
The England international has faced considerable criticism in his home country, but Kroos believes that scrutiny does not accurately reflect Bellingham’s quality or potential.
Kroos discussed the 22-year-old on Einfach mal Luppen, the podcast he co-hosts with his brother Felix, alongside former England defender Rio Ferdinand. The former Germany international also reflected on Bellingham’s role and future at Real Madrid.
“In my opinion, Bellingham is one of the most complete midfielders in the world,” Kroos said. “If he’s in top form, I think he is the best midfielder in the world, or at least he has the potential to be.”
Kroos is well placed to assess Bellingham’s abilities, having played alongside him at Real Madrid during the 2023-24 season. The pair helped the Spanish club win LaLiga, the Champions League and the Spanish Super Cup.
The former midfielder highlighted the combination of qualities that makes Bellingham such a distinctive player. He said the Englishman possesses significant physical strength, outstanding technique and strong tactical awareness.
Bellingham is also capable of winning duels, scoring with either foot, competing effectively in the air and making forward runs into the opposition penalty area, according to Kroos.
His flexibility is another major asset. Bellingham can begin attacks from deep, play in central midfield, operate between midfield and attack, and contribute to offensive moves. That range makes it difficult to define him by one position, although Kroos said he must be used in the right tactical way for his abilities to have their greatest impact.
Kroos also offered an explanation for the criticism Bellingham has received in England. Players, he said, are often subjected to greater pressure and closer attention from the media and public in their own country.
That criticism, Kroos added, should not automatically be taken as a measure of a player’s true ability.
He believes Bellingham’s biggest issue is not a lack of technical quality, but recovering his full fitness and confidence. Doing so would allow him to perform consistently at his highest level while helping Real Madrid retain the right balance between defence and attack.
Kroos concluded that Bellingham already has the attributes required to become the world’s leading midfielder. If he reaches peak physical condition, the German believes he could ultimately move ahead of all his rivals in that position.
