Bellingham: “I'm strong and positive; in my best physical shape in a long time”
“We want to keep up the momentum from recent games and carry it into El Clásico,” explained the midfielder.
Jude Bellingham spoke to Realmadrid TV to discuss Real Madrid vs Barcelona, which will be played this Sunday at the Bernabéu (4:15 pm CET). The midfielder, who will be playing his eighth Clásico as a Real Madrid player, spoke about the clash's importance: "It's probably one of the biggest games in the world. As a child, I watched them all, I grew up following these matches. I've already played in a few. I've had some very good moments and some more difficult ones, but it's an incredible game to play, especially at home, and I'm really looking forward to it.”
“As a team, these weeks are really exciting. We want to keep up the momentum from the last few games and carry it into this one too.”
What does winning these kinds of matches mean?
"I think everyone understands that goals and victories in these matches mean a little more, because they prepare you emotionally and mentally for the rest of the season. Knowing that you can beat your biggest rival for the title makes you believe that you can have a good season. I felt that way in my first year. We want to feel that again, and that's why it's so important to win.”
The atmosphere at the Bernabéu
“It's incredible. For a player, there's no better setting than this stadium for a big game. I've experienced it many times, but you never get used to it.
Every time you step onto the pitch, you get goosebumps: the tifos, the chants... you know you're in for a big night. Hopefully, we can match all that energy that the fans send our way.”
How is Bellingham feeling ahead of El Clásico?
“I feel really good and happy. Finally back on the pitch.In the last few games before the break and then against Getafe and Juve, I started to feel better, closer to my best. I'm strong and positive, probably in my best physical shape in a long time. I'm ready to give my all and do whatever it takes for the team to win and continue the momentum they had built up while I was away. Hopefully I can continue to play well, enjoy myself and win."
Keys to victory
"A big part of it is managing the game, the moment, the emotions and certain details that make all the difference. Last year, when we found ourselves behind in some games, it affected us too much and we let the game slip away. Now it's about staying mentally stable for the full 90 minutes. Tactically, we know how they play and how we want to play. So the key is to manage everything else well: the nerves, the pressure, the atmosphere... which is going to be huge. It's these details that can make the difference.”
El Clásico in England
“In England, everyone recognises that this is one of the biggest games in the world. There are big games and derbies there, but even there, everyone is aware of what this match means. Because of the level we've seen over the years, because of the pressure, the demands, the quality of the players and what's at stake every time. I grew up there, but that doesn't change my perspective: on the contrary, I respect it even more. So yes, it's important that we get the win."