In a recent press conference, Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho expressed his surprise regarding Jude Bellingham's ranking in the 2026 Ballon d'Or, where the young midfielder finished in 11th place. Mourinho's comments came ahead of Real Madrid's LaLiga match against Racing Santander, scheduled for Sunday evening.

Mourinho acknowledged Bellingham's impressive performances, particularly during the World Cup, where he played a pivotal role for the England national team. Despite his contributions, including scoring seven goals and providing one assist in eight matches, Bellingham's ranking fell short of the top ten, which left Mourinho somewhat taken aback.

During the press conference, Mourinho stated, "Regarding the Ballon d'Or voting, the thing that left me a bit surprised is the position of Jude Bellingham, who was eleventh. No further comments." This remark highlights the manager's belief in Bellingham's talent and potential, which many fans and analysts have also recognized.

Bellingham's performance at the World Cup was a standout, showcasing his skills on a global stage, yet it was Harry Kane, his England teammate, who ultimately clinched the prestigious Ballon d'Or award. Kane's victory was closely followed by Kylian Mbappé of France, who secured the second position in the rankings.

The Ballon d'Or is awarded annually and is considered one of the highest individual accolades in football, celebrating the best players in the sport. Bellingham's absence from the top ten has sparked discussions among fans and pundits alike, questioning the voting process and criteria used to determine the rankings.

As Real Madrid prepares for their upcoming match, Mourinho's comments serve as a reminder of Bellingham's rising star status and the expectations that come with it. The football community will be watching closely to see how Bellingham continues to develop in his career, especially under the guidance of a seasoned manager like Mourinho.