Bellingham receives hero's welcome at former club Birmingham City

Jude Bellingham experienced a deeply emotional return to St. Andrew's, the stadium where he began his football journey. The English midfielder, currently on holiday after the World Cup and not yet with Real Madrid for pre-season training, was the guest of honor at Birmingham City's friendly against Barcelona.

Before kickoff, the English club presented Bellingham on the pitch, where fans greeted him like a hero. The stands roared with chants of his name, and thousands of supporters sang "He's one of our own," creating one of the evening's most touching moments. Birmingham City FC shared a video on social media of Bellingham taking his seat in the stands, captioned "Jude. He’s home."

The 23-year-old visibly enjoyed the match, watching his beloved team compete against the Spanish champions. Birmingham City drew 2-2 in regulation time before winning the penalty shootout 3-2, with goalkeeper Neil Etheridge playing a key role. After the game, Bellingham posed for photos with fans and donned the club's retired No. 22 jersey, a number Birmingham City retired when he left for Borussia Dortmund in 2020.

Bellingham is one of the most significant talents to emerge from the club's academy. He made his first-team debut at just 16 years and 36 days old, becoming Birmingham's youngest-ever player before his transfers to Borussia Dortmund and then Real Madrid.

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He’s one of our own