John Terry Praises Bellingham as England's Zidane, Believes Three Lions Superior to Argentina

England legend John Terry has lauded Jude Bellingham's impact on the Three Lions, drawing a comparison to French icon Zinedine Zidane. Ahead of England's 2026 World Cup semifinal clash with Argentina, Terry stated that Bellingham possesses a rare blend of technical ability and maturity for his age.

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I've said since the start of this World Cup that he reminds me of Zidane. He's really carrying this team right now. I think he's a world-class player. Besides that, if you listen to him speak off the pitch, he also has incredible composure.

"I've said since the start of this World Cup that he reminds me of Zidane. He's really carrying this team right now. I think he's a world-class player," Terry said in a FIFA podcast. He also noted Bellingham's remarkable composure off the pitch.

Bellingham, 23, has been a standout performer in the tournament, netting six goals. This includes two goals in the quarter-final victory over Norway and two in the round of 16 win against Mexico. His goal tally makes him the first midfielder to score six goals in a World Cup finals.

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In big games like this, you need big players to step up, and he has shown that over the last two years, previously with Real Madrid and now in the World Cup. I think there is still much more to come from him. He is in some ways similar to Zidane and the comparison JT (John Terry) made with Zidane makes sense.

Former Brazil international Gilberto Silva echoed Terry's sentiments, emphasizing Bellingham's knack for delivering in crucial matches, much like Zidane. "In big games like this, you need big players to step up, and he has shown that over the last two years," Silva commented.

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I don't see Argentina as a better team than us. If you compare player for player, I think we are better.

Terry also expressed confidence in England's ability to overcome Argentina, stating that England's squad has superior individual quality. He highlighted the team's resilience throughout the tournament, overcoming difficult situations in previous matches. "What I love about this England team right now is that we always manage to get through the big moments. We have a good team, but it feels like everything is going our way. It feels like this is England's time," Terry added.

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What I love about this England team right now is that we always manage to get through the big moments. We have a good team, but it feels like everything is going our way. It feels like this is England's time.