Jude Bellingham has brushed aside speculation surrounding his off-field lifestyle, describing the criticism as nothing more than “outside noise” and insisting his controversial goal celebration during Real Madrid’s Champions League clash with Monaco was meant light-heartedly.
The England midfielder found the net for the first time in 2026 as Real Madrid cruised to a dominant 6-1 victory, sealing another emphatic European night at the Santiago Bernabeu. After scoring Madrid’s final goal, Bellingham raised eyebrows by performing a drinking-style gesture toward the crowd — a moment that quickly went viral across social media platforms.
While some fans interpreted the celebration as provocative, Bellingham later clarified that it was never intended to offend. Instead, he explained it was a tongue-in-cheek response to recent rumours that had circulated online questioning his professionalism.
Those rumours stemmed largely from comments made by Spanish YouTuber AuronPlay, a hugely popular online personality with more than 29 million subscribers. In the days leading up to Real Madrid’s domestic league match against Levante, AuronPlay publicly claimed that Bellingham “loves alcohol too much” and had been visiting “every nightclub in Spain.” The influencer suggested that such behaviour could be having a negative impact on the midfielder’s performances.
The comments gained traction quickly, fuelling online debate and drawing unwanted attention to Bellingham. During Real Madrid’s subsequent 2-0 win over Levante, the 22-year-old was among several players targeted with whistles and jeers from sections of the crowd — an unusual reception for a player who has been one of Madrid’s standout performers since arriving from Borussia Dortmund.
Speaking to TNT Sports after the Monaco match, Bellingham addressed the situation directly, expressing frustration at how easily unverified claims can gain credibility in the modern digital landscape.
“It feels like anyone can pick up a camera, say whatever they want, and suddenly the whole world believes it without any evidence,” he said. “That’s just the way things are now.”
Bellingham explained that he consciously chooses not to dwell on criticism that he believes is unfounded. According to him, players are often faced with two choices when confronted with public scrutiny: either allow it to affect them emotionally or embrace it with perspective and humour.
“I think you can either complain about it and let it drag you down, or you can just roll with it and enjoy yourself,” he added. “For me, the celebration was just a joke back to the fans and to the people who feel they can say anything.”
The midfielder was keen to stress that he knows the reality of his personal life better than anyone else and remains confident in his professionalism and commitment to football.
“I know the truth about how I live,” he said. “I know what I give to the game, how hard I work, and what I try to contribute to this team every single day.”
Despite the attention surrounding his celebration, Bellingham insisted that the so-called “outside noise” has little influence on his mindset or motivation. Instead, he remains focused on helping Real Madrid compete at the highest level across all competitions.
“All that talk doesn’t really matter in the end,” he said. “But sometimes it’s okay to have a little joke.”
The former Birmingham City and Borussia Dortmund star also acknowledged that supporters are entitled to voice their opinions, even when those opinions are critical.
“I’ve always said that fans work all week, save their money, and come to games because they love the club,” Bellingham explained. “They have the right to express themselves. That’s football.”
Since joining Real Madrid, Bellingham has rapidly established himself as a central figure in the team, combining maturity, leadership, and technical brilliance well beyond his years. His performances this season have continued to underline why he is regarded as one of the best midfielders of his generation.
Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has consistently praised Bellingham’s attitude, professionalism, and influence both on and off the pitch. Within the dressing room, he is viewed as a player who leads by example — someone whose focus remains firmly on football rather than distractions away from it.
While social media controversies may come and go, Bellingham’s response suggests a player comfortable in his own skin, unafraid to confront criticism with composure and humour. As Real Madrid continue their push for domestic and European honours, the England international appears determined to let his performances speak louder than online speculation.
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