Former England captain John Terry has likened Jude Bellingham to French football legend Zinedine Zidane following the midfielder’s outstanding performances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking on the FIFA Podcast on Monday, Terry said Bellingham has been the driving force behind England’s march to the World Cup semi-finals. He added that the Real Madrid star has displayed the same influence Zidane had during France’s 1998 World Cup-winning campaign and their run to the 2006 final.
“I said at the start of this World Cup, he reminds me of Zidane. He’s dragging this team through at the moment. I think he’s world class,” Terry said.
“Also, you listen to him off the pitch, he’s got a real calmness about him as well.”
Bellingham Shines on the Biggest Stage
Bellingham has enjoyed a remarkable tournament, scoring four goals in England’s knockout-stage victories.
The 23-year-old netted twice in England’s dramatic 3-2 Round of 16 victory over co-hosts Mexico City before adding another brace in the quarter-final win over Norway.
His latest double also saw him become the first midfielder to score six goals at a FIFA World Cup.
Former Brazil midfielder Gilberto Silva agreed with Terry’s assessment, praising Bellingham’s ability to deliver when it matters most.
“In these big matches, that’s when you need your big players to step up, and he has shown that over the past two years, before with Real Madrid and now in the World Cup,” Silva said.
“I think there’s a lot more to come from him. He’s in a way similar to Zidane, and the comparison JT made with Zidane makes sense.”
Terry Backs England Against Argentina
England will face defending champions Argentina national football team in the semi-finals, but Terry believes the Three Lions have enough quality to reach the final.
“I’m not worried about Argentina, if I’m honest,” he said.
“I don’t look at Argentina and sit here being worried about them being better than us. I think, man-for-man, we’re better than Argentina.”
Terry added that England’s confidence and momentum could prove decisive.
“You know what I like about this England side at the minute? We’ve had big moments. We’ve got a good side, but it feels like everything’s going for us. It feels like it’s England’s time,” he said.
