"He's the best player they have" - Ruud Gullit claims one Real Madrid star is a 'victim' of his teammates' poor performances

Former Netherlands international Ruud Gullit has claimed that Jude Bellingham is a 'victim' of his Real Madrid teammates' poor performances. He believes that the Englishman is Los Balncos' best player, but struggles due to the team's unbalancd setup.

Bellingham was in action as his Real Madrid side fell to a 2-1 home defeat to Manchester City in the Champions League on Wednesday, December 10. The 22-year-old provided the assist to Rodrgyo for the side's goal, but showed off his frustration at full-time as Xabi Alonso's side suffered consecutive defeats in three days after the 2-0 loss to Celta Vigo in LaLiga.

The Spanish giants have suffered a dip in form, managing just two wins in their last seven matches across competitions. While Alonso has come under fire for his side's recent poor displays, the players have also received their fair share of criticism, including Bellingham.

However, Gullit asserted that the former Borussia Dortmund star has not been delivering to par because he carries more defensive responsibilities than other attacking players on the team.

Speaking on BeIN Sports (via GOAL), the 63-year-old said:

"Mbappe is not doing a lot when he doesn't have the ball. Vinicius Junior doesn't do a lot, Rodrygo doesn't do a lot, and lots of others have to work double. Bellingham is a victim of that."

Gullit suggested that Bellingham’s attacking influence has decreased since Toni Kroos' departure and called the Englishman Real Madrid's best player currently.

"He can't play in the same way that he did that Kroos was there. When Kroos was there... they had a balance. He's the best player they have," he added.

Jude Bellingham missed out on Madrid's games at the start of the season due to a shoulder injury, but has been a key figure in the manager's setup since his return in late November. In 17 appearances across competitions this term, he has contributed four goals and three assists.

Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham reacts to criticism amid the club's poor form

Jude Bellingham has opened up on taking criticism from fans amid his slow start to the season and Real Madrid's recent dip in form. The Englishman, who has faced reproval in his home country, admitted that he is not bothered by such.

Speaking after Madrid's loss to Manchester City, Bellingham said:

“Noise in England? This is life. It’s what I signed up for. I play for the biggest club in the world and one of the most scrutinised countries in the world."I don’t want pity. I’m living the dream. Many people want to be in the position that I’m in. It comes with a few people that are negative. I just roll with the punches.”

Bellingham was notably left out of the Three Lions squad during the October and November international breaks, raising eyebrows over his place in the national team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.