Earlier this week, Adidas roped in Jude Bellingham as the latest endorser of their premium Predator line. The player is indeed very early in his career, but it is safe to say that he is already one of the biggest names in world football.
The Real Madrid starlet was the big highlight during Adidas’ 30th anniversary of the Predator recently, during which he spoke about the numerous legends who have sported the special model.
“Zidane is one of the best midfielders in history,” he said, making his pick from the pool of legends that included David Beckham and Steven Gerrard as relayed by MARCA.
Bellingham then added a note on how the former Real Madrid coach left a special legacy on the boots and the responsibility he felt in sporting the same.
“I hope to preserve the legacy of his number (the 5) and his boots.”
Commenting on his best memory of Zidane with the Predator kicks, he said,
“For what it means and the moment, Zidane’s volley is the first and best memory that comes to mind with these boots.”
As the latest endorser of the premium line, Bellingham spoke in depth about the pressure on his shoulders, albeit with a sense of positivity.
“I hope there are many great moments ahead, continue with the legacy of these boots, of this brand, and try to inspire the next generation that comes after me.”
“Before it was done by Zidane, Beckham, or Gerrard, and now it is my responsibility and pride and I hope to enjoy it,” he added.
Bellingham took the No. 5 shirt at Madrid, previously worn by Zidane. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
The Real Madrid youngster then went on to highlight the importance of a strong mental game in today’s world of football, a factor that has allowed him to conquer pressure at Real Madrid.
“It’s a matter of mentality, these players have in common their ability to perform in the best scenarios, in the big games, and that’s why you are judged in football.”
Bellingham received the Golden Boy award earlier this year by a record margin, and he emphasised how sweet the victory was after missing out on it year after year.
“Winning trophies like the Golden Boy has arrived naturally, he had been second twice and the truth is that I didn’t like it.”
“You take it as something personal when you don’t win. For me, it was about keeping pushing, keeping trying, and in the end I got it,” he continued.
The youngster finally admitted that he was just getting started and laid a seed of thought saying he would only get better with time.
