Toni Kroos: Jude Bellingham can become the world’s best midfielder

Toni Kroos says Jude Bellingham has the qualities to become the best midfielder in the world if he regains full fitness and returns to his highest level, despite the criticism directed at the England international in his home country.

The former Real Madrid midfielder was speaking on Kroos & Kroos: World Cup Under the Microscope, the TikTok programme he presents with his brother Felix Kroos. The episode also featured former England defender Rio Ferdinand and focused on Bellingham’s ability and future at Real Madrid.

“For me, Bellingham is one of the most complete midfielders in the world,” Kroos said. “If he is at his best, I think he is the best midfielder in the world, or he can be the best.”

Kroos played alongside Bellingham at Real Madrid during the 2023-2024 season, when the Spanish club won La Liga, the Champions League and the Spanish Super Cup. That experience gave the German the opportunity to assess the England player’s abilities closely on the pitch.

Kroos believes Bellingham combines physical strength, technical skill and tactical intelligence in a way few midfielders can match. He also highlighted the 22-year-old’s ability to win physical duels, score with either foot, compete effectively in the air and make runs into the opposition penalty area.

Bellingham’s versatility is another quality that, in Kroos’ view, gives him a significant advantage. He can help build attacks from deep, operate in central midfield, receive the ball between the lines and contribute in advanced positions.

That range of responsibilities makes Bellingham difficult to define as a player limited to one position. However, Kroos said his qualities need to be used within an appropriate tactical system if he is to have the greatest possible influence.

The former Germany international also addressed the criticism Bellingham has faced in England. Kroos said players often come under greater pressure and scrutiny in their own countries because of the increased media and public attention surrounding them.

He added that criticism from home does not necessarily reflect a player’s true ability.

According to Kroos, Bellingham’s main challenge is not a lack of technical quality. Instead, he must recover his physical condition and confidence so he can consistently produce his best performances.

Kroos also believes Bellingham has an important role to play in helping Real Madrid maintain the balance between their defensive and attacking duties.

He concluded that Bellingham has all the attributes required to lead the world’s midfielders and suggested that reaching his physical peak could give him an advantage over every rival in the position.