Bellingham best player at World Cup - Rooney
Retold by Oddsrama · 15 July 2026
Wayne Rooney has crowned Jude Bellingham the standout performer of this World Cup tournament, and the numbers back up the bold claim. The Real Madrid midfielder has netted six times in six matches for England, putting him within touching distance of the Golden Boot race headlined by Kylian Mbappe and Lionel Messi. Rooney acknowledged that Bellingham hasn't quite replicated his club form at the Bernabéu, but his tournament impact has been undeniable—especially in knockout football where clutch moments matter most.
What sets Bellingham apart, according to the Three Lions legend, isn't just his technical brilliance but his relentless work ethic and hunger. Rooney drew parallels to his own playing style: a player willing to commit fully, sometimes recklessly, but always backing it up on the biggest stage. That combination of desire and delivery is what resonates with England fans who value graft as much as skill. Bellingham's major tournament record speaks volumes—nine goals and three assists across World Cups and European Championships, with an efficiency rate of a goal or assist every 138 minutes, nearly double his rate in other internationals.
With England now facing Argentina in the semi-finals, Rooney tipped Harry Kane to be the ultimate tournament winner if the Lions lift the trophy. However, Kane and Bellingham's partnership has been crucial to England's run, accounting for 12 of their 13 goals—an extraordinary reliance on two players by World Cup standards. If either scores against Messi's Argentina, they'll match the record for goals in a single World Cup tournament. For betting purposes, Bellingham's form trajectory and ability to deliver in knockout stages makes him a compelling narrative heading into the final stages.
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