Bellingham excited by Mourinho reunion at Real Madrid

Jude Bellingham has described the opportunity to work with Jose Mourinho at Real Madrid as a “dream” after returning to training following England’s World Cup campaign.

Mourinho has taken charge of Madrid ahead of the 2026-27 season, returning for a second spell in the Spanish capital after a disappointing campaign for the club. Xabi Alonso left his post in January, while replacement Alvaro Arbeloa was stood down at the end of the season.

Madrid finished a distant second in LaLiga behind Barcelona and failed to win a trophy. Mourinho, 63, has been appointed to restore the team’s competitiveness, and Bellingham is eager to learn from one of the sport’s most decorated coaches.

“It's a dream for me to work with a coach like Mourinho. I've only had one chance to see him, but I'm very excited to see what he's like,” Bellingham told Real Madrid TV.

Bellingham made 40 appearances for Madrid last season, scoring eight goals and supplying five assists. He then enjoyed a standout World Cup with England, scoring seven goals.

“The World Cup was a great experience for me and my England team-mates,” he said. “But I'm ready to come back and compete. Hopefully, we can win.”

The midfielder also said he feels more mature and experienced, expressing optimism about Madrid’s prospects with Mourinho and the club’s new signings.

“It's an honour and a privilege for me to play for this club,” Bellingham said. “I hope it will be for many more years.”

Madrid will complete their pre-season against Schalke before opening their LaLiga campaign against Espanyol on August 22.