On Nov. 4, Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham played his 50th match in the Champions League. He became the youngest footballer in the tournament’s history to reach this benchmark, Opta reported. The English player has outperformed legendary Iker Casillas.
UEFA Champions League
Matchday 4, Nov. 4
Liverpool vs. Real Madrid: 1-0
Goal: Alexis Mac Allister 61’
Bellingham was in the starting line-up against Liverpool at the age of 22 years and 128 days, thus surpassing the previous record held by Real Madrid’s former goalkeeper Casillas. The 2010 FIFA World Cup title holder, as a member of Spain’s national football team, had played 50 Champions League matches at the age of 22 years and 155 days.
According to Yahoo Sports, Cesc Fàbregas (22 years 331 days) rounds out the top three in this category. The top five also includes Kylian Mbappé (22 years 339 days) and Lionel Messi (23 years 166 days).
The youngest players to achieve the 50-game mark in the Champions League
- Jude Bellingham: Borussia Dortmund / Real Madrid, 22 years 128 days
- Iker Casillas: Real Madrid, 22 years 155 days
- Cesc Fàbregas: Arsenal, 22 years 331 days
- Kylian Mbappé: Monaco / Real Madrid, 22 years 339 days
- Lionel Messi: Barcelona, 23 years 166 days
Bellingham’s career
Bellingham has been playing for Real Madrid since 2023. In his first season in Spain, he won the La Liga title and the Spanish Super Cup. Internationally, he won the Champions League and the UEFA Super Cup. In 10 matches this season, the English midfielder has scored three goals and provided one assist.
Bellingham made his debut for the England national team in November 2020. He became a European Championship runner-up twice, in 2020 and 2024. In 44 matches, the midfielder has recorded six goals and ten assists.
