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Erling Haaland has told England that they are fortunate to have a player of Jude Bellingham’s calibre, after watching the midfielder lead the Three Lions into the World Cup semi-finals with a commanding display. The Manchester City striker experienced Bellingham’s brilliance first-hand as Norway were eliminated in a tense quarter-final encounter.

High praise from a former teammate

Following England’s hard-fought victory over Norway, Haaland was quick to set rivalry aside to applaud the performance of his close friend and former Borussia Dortmund teammate, Bellingham. The Real Madrid midfielder proved decisive once again, scoring his second consecutive brace to guide Thomas Tuchel’s side into the final four.

Despite Norway’s disappointment, Haaland acknowledged that Bellingham is currently performing at a level few can match in global football. Speaking to reporters after the match, the Norwegian star made his admiration clear: “Real Madrid and England are lucky to have Jude Bellingham,” he said.

Silencing the critics on the grand stage

Haaland also addressed the criticism Bellingham has occasionally faced about his goal contributions. Some have questioned whether the midfielder scores enough, but his performance against Norway provided a definitive response to those doubts.

“Sometimes people criticise Jude Bellingham for not scoring enough goals, but that’s unfair,” Haaland remarked, defending the 23-year-old. “He’s a midfielder, yet he still scores, drives forward, dribbles — he’s world class.”

The ultimate game-changer

Bellingham’s influence has now reached a point where even the world’s top players are eager to play alongside him. Haaland, who shared an exceptional understanding with the Englishman during their time together in the Bundesliga, hinted that any manager in world football would want Bellingham in their side.

“Everyone wants Jude Bellingham in their team,” Haaland said, recognising the Real Madrid star’s impact for both club and country. He went on to add the ultimate compliment: “He’s one of the best players in the world.”

A huge boost for Thomas Tuchel

England had more reasons to celebrate beyond Bellingham’s goals. The midfielder managed to complete the quarter-final without receiving a yellow card, a crucial achievement as he had entered the match just one booking away from suspension. His composed and disciplined performance ensures he will be available for the semi-final clash. With yellow cards set to be cleared after the semi-final stage, Bellingham is now free to feature in the final should England overcome Argentina in their last-four encounter on Wednesday.