However, the hearts of the English will also swing towards Jude Bellingham, the other superstar of the selection. Even though he didn't have his usual impact in the previous round against Manchester City, the 20-year-old attacking midfielder has already become Real Madrid's strong link. “At his age, he handles pressure without problem. He has a good mentality and he is an exceptional player. His impact was immediately felt thanks to his goals, his presence and many other things”greeted Pep Guardiola during the quarter-final.
Jude can hold off from scoring against us.
Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane, Gareth Southgate's two spearheads, will face each other for the very first time. “We both went abroad to try to live these experiences, to play the big nights of the Champions League and the big semi-finals.points out Kane who nevertheless hopes that his compatriot will miss out on these semi-finals. He is having an exceptional season, but he can hold back from scoring in the two games against us”he quipped.
And the Golden Ball?
The statistics for the attacking midfielder and striker are staggering: 21 goals and 10 assists for Bellingham, 42 goals and 13 assists for Kane. With Kylian Mbappé (43 goals, 10 assists), the other semi-finalist who is having an incredible season with Paris, the two Englishmen will more than likely appear on the podium for the next Ballon d'Or. It remains to be seen in what order.
Even if the Euro will be the final judge in view of the trophy which will be awarded in October, the course in the Champions League will be decisive. “But if we had to stop the votes today, I would give Bellingham a crossconfides Alex Teklak, Pickx Sports consultant for the Champions League. Bellingham has a slight advantage over the other two because it is at the biggest club in the world. He is also in a better championship than Mbappé and he has a more flamboyant and spectacular side than Kane. However, we know that this plays a role in all the lobbying around the Ballon d’Or.”
