From Birmingham roots to Ballon d'Or contender: How Jude Bellingham's mother Denise shaped his stellar career

Jude Bellingham won every possible trophy in his debut season with Real Madrid, he has been in amazing form and the star performed for the side across all competitions. The English midfielder was rewarded back for his exceptional performance as he was named the La Liga 'Player of the Season'. He scored 23 goals in 42 appearances across all competitions. He has been one of the most crucial members of the side. 

The 20-year-old footballer was seen hugging his parents and younger brother Jobe in the stands on a historical night. But the eye-catching moment was when the Los Blancos footballer was handing over his medal to his mother. Denise has been devoted towards his both sons as the mother has played a very important role in the upbringing of his older son, Jude.

Along with the English footballer's father, she worked tirelessly day and night and weekends shuttling Jude and his younger brother Jobe to training for years, and as their careers have taken off. Bellingham when he signed for Borussia Dortmund from Birmingham City, she travelled with him to Germany during her son's most important time of life. Then she also travelled away to Spain when the footballer joined the club. 

Plays the most important role in his life: Jude Bellingham

The footballer has been open about the 'massive' benefits having his mother close at hand has had on him and after the UCL win he assured that she "plays the most important role in his life." He said at Wembley after beating his former club in the UCL final, "The role my mum is playing is massive. It is probably the biggest role of anyone, more than my coaches and managers, to be honest."

"It gets hard sometimes and you wonder whether it’s worth it but nights like this make you realise. I was all right until I saw my mum and dad. Nights like where they could have been at home by 7 pm but they’re out until 12am on trips to take me to football. And my little brother, who I’m trying to be a role model for."