Wright hits back at media criticism of Bellingham & England claims ‘not good for black superstar’
The Real Madrid man has been heavily criticized for appearing sulk after being substituted for Albania
The former follower of Ian Wright has suggested that certain sections of the public “are not ready for the way the superstar is nailed down”, pointing to the way Jude Bellingham has been treated by the media in recent weeks.
The Real Madrid midfield has come under scrutiny after reacting angrily to being substituted during England’s World Cup qualifier in Albania.
His response drew attention and, especially as Thomas Tuchel – Who earlier this year apologized to Bellingham for calling his behavior “dismissive” – means that he will look into this incident.
Bellingham’s importance in England seemed unlikely after his showing at Euro 2024, currently under tuchel he no longer has a guaranteed place.
Wright, the tone and volume of criticism aimed at the 22-year-old is not only about football. He believes that attitudes are shaped by race, the opposition to Bellingham’s personality and the confidence of other observers.
“I’m worried about Jude because he’s human [the media] It’s out of control,” Wright said on the Overlap YouTube channel.
“You show people that I’m here, I’m black, I’m proud, I’m ready to go.”
Since leaving Birmingham City at 17, Bellingham’s evolution has accelerated. A big-money move to Borussia Dormund was followed by his transfer to Real Madrid in a deal worth up to £115m.
He quickly delivered, helping Madrid win both La Liga and the Champions League in his prime, scoring 23 goals and providing 13 assists.
He also produced one of the defining moments of Euro 2024 with his 95-minute strike against Slovakia last year.
On the same show, Gary Neville referred to Raheem Sterling’s belief that he was unfairly targeted by certain media outlets during Euro 2016.
Over time, double standards have been highlighted in how black players are portrayed in print media, suggesting that it perpetuates harmful stereotypes.
Asked if he sees a similarity, Wright said: “I don’t think they are ready to be black superstars, they can’t move like Jude is going. He goes out, he does what he does.
“It’s too high for these people. I’ll put it in football opinions. They all love N’Ololo Kante. He’s a humble black man, he keeps doing that.
“But if you get a [Paul] POGBA, or Bellingham, and you get that kind of energy, which doesn’t sit well with people. So a person like Jude, for some reason, intimidates these people because of his ability to have his strength and the inspiration he can give. “
Bellingham was left out of England’s October games against Wales and Latvia, returning this month only to face Serbia and Albania.
He came off the bench just after the hour mark against Serbia and was substituted for Albania.
