Jude Bellingham has praised Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti for his knack of maximizing the midfielder’s potential during his remarkable debut season in Spain.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Bellingham has been exceptional since his transfer to Madrid from Borussia Dortmund last summer. With an impressive tally of 20 goals in only 34 appearances this season, he has emerged as the top scorer for the team across all competitions.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

The 20-year-old believes Italian coach Ancelotti has been a big factor in his immediate rise to stardom in the Spanish capital. Bellingham explained that the legendary tactician has given him a different role to that which he played at Dortmund, allowing him to thrive at the Santiago Bernabeu.

WHAT BELLINGHAM SAID

“The sign of a good manager is when he makes you believe you are a bit better, gives me the freedom to roam,” the England international said. “He’s a top person, makes me feel comfortable. He’s been amazing in helping me adapt, understand my potential. I’ve played more of a 10. Dortmund I was deeper and Birmingham all over the place, it’s definitely down to him.”

WHAT NEXT FOR BELLINGHAM?

Bellingham, who is without a goal in his last five matches for Madrid, will hope to get back on the scoresheet on Wednesday when his team take on Manchester City in the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie. The two teams are tied at 3-3 on aggregate after the first match.