Jude Bellingham has been England's standout performer at this World Cup, scoring six goals and carrying the team into the semi-finals. Yet the Real Madrid midfielder is quick to acknowledge the crucial role his family has played in his rise, with his mother, father and younger brother all providing support at key moments.
His mother Denise, a former HR manager, has been a constant voice in his ear. She moved with Jude to Germany when he left Birmingham City and later helped him settle in Madrid. Before the quarter-final against Norway, she repeatedly reminded him to avoid a yellow card that would rule him out of the semi-final. Jude has described her as the biggest influence on his career, helping him stay humble through the highs and lows.
His father Mark enjoyed a long non-league playing career, scoring more than 700 goals for a succession of clubs, and worked as a police sergeant before becoming a full-time agent. He negotiated Jude's £88.5m move to Real Madrid in 2023 and has also handled Jobe's transfer to Borussia Dortmund. Mark is said to have influenced Jude's media duties, encouraging him to speak more at this tournament.
Younger brother Jobe, 20, is forging his own path at Dortmund after two years at Sunderland. He insists he is not following in Jude's footsteps and has impressed as captain of England's Under-21s. His former Sunderland boss Tony Mowbray said Jobe wants to create his own identity rather than living off his brother's name.
Jude's girlfriend, Californian model Ashlyn Castro, has been at England's matches to cheer him on. With the semi-final against Argentina looming, the support of his tight-knit family will be more important than ever.
