Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has backed Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham to win the Ballon d’Or in the future, describing the England international as one of the game’s top talents.
Speaking on the Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast alongside former Manchester United teammate Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez, Ferdinand agreed with the Mexican’s view that Bellingham is underrated despite his growing reputation.
“I would go so far as to say that I believe he will win a Ballon d’Or one day,” Ferdinand said.
Since joining Real Madrid from Borussia Dortmund in 2023, Bellingham has established himself as one of the world’s best midfielders. Although he is yet to win football’s most prestigious individual award, he has already earned three Ballon d’Or nominations.
His best finish came in 2024 when he placed third after an outstanding debut season at Real Madrid and helping England reach the UEFA European Championship final. He previously finished 18th in 2023 while still at Borussia Dortmund and 23rd in the 2025 rankings.
Despite an injury-hit 2025/26 season and Real Madrid finishing without major silverware, Bellingham impressed at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The midfielder scored seven goals for England in the tournament, finishing ahead of Harry Kane and Ousmane Dembele in the scoring charts and strengthening his case as one of the leading contenders for this year’s Ballon d’Or.
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