Jude Bellingham did not hold back after Real Madrid’s crushing 3-0 loss to Arsenal in the Champions League on Tuesday.
The midfielder admitted the Spanish giants were fortunate the scoreline didn’t get uglier, saying, “they could have had way more.”
According to him, Madrid were “nowhere near it” on the night and would now need “something unbelievably special” to stay alive in the tie.
Real Madrid’s Champions League dreams took a heavy blow after a humbling 3-0 defeat to Arsenal. The Emirates crowd roared as the Gunners delivered a commanding quarter-final first leg performance.
Although the reigning champions had moments of promise, they were mostly second-best from start to finish. Declan Rice struck twice with stunning free-kicks, which shattered Madrid’s early hopes.
To make matters worse, Mikel Merino added a third with a composed finish that punished Madrid’s sloppy defending. Though the scoreline stung, it could have been far worse.
Madrid star Jude Bellingham admitted his side were “nowhere near it,” acknowledging Arsenal’s dominance throughout the 90 minutes. “Arsenal were really good,” he added.
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In his honest reflection, Bellingham confessed, “To be honest they could have had way more.” Yet despite the hammering, he refused to count Madrid out, pointing to the club’s fighting spirit. “You never know… we will need something unbelievably special.”
Real’s attack lacked fluency, and their midfield was outclassed for large spells, especially after Arsenal’s second goal. Bellingham admitted, “We got to the final third multiple times but didn’t do enough.”
Madrid’s few chances were either wasted or denied by a solid Arsenal defense. Even Bellingham noted, “Very rarely do you come here and score one and go through.”
He also credited Arsenal’s pressing and reaction play, stating “They reacted well and we didn’t do enough with the ball.”
Although the damage is done, the tie isn’t over yet. Bellingham insisted ahead of the Champions League quarter-final second leg against Arsenal, “We are still alive, we still have 90 minutes.”
Now, all eyes turn to the Santiago Bernabeu for the second leg on April 16. If Madrid must rise from the ashes, then they need more than a miracle.
The winner will earn a Champions League semi-final clash against either PSG or Aston Villa. For now, Madrid are clinging to fading hope.
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