Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham has won the 2023 Kopa Trophy, becoming the first Englishman to claim the accolade.
The 20-year-old outshone formidable contenders to clinch the honour at the annual Kopa Trophy presentation, which coincides with the prestigious Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris, France.
Bellingham’s remarkable rise saw him finish as the runner-up in 2021.
Fast forward to 2023, and his exceptional performances in a Madrid jersey ensured he would not be denied.
Organised by France Football, this accolade is named after Raymond Kopa, a former Madrid star and Ballon d’Or winner. The Kopa Trophy award is given to the best player under 21.
Bellingham found himself in illustrious company on this year’s shortlist, competing against teammate Eduardo Camavinga, Manchester United’s Rasmus Hojlund, Bayern Munich’s Jamal Musiala (2nd), and Barcelona duo Pedri (3rd) and Gavi.
The midfielder has grown in stature at Borussia Dortmund and with the English national team, ultimately leading to his blockbuster €133 million transfer to the Spanish capital of Madrid this summer.
Bellingham has taken the footballing world by storm since joining Madrid, amassing 13 goals and three assists in just 13 appearances and often delivering match-winners.
This weekend, he scored a brace to inspire a massive win over Barcelona in the highly anticipated El Clasico clash.
His seamless integration into the Los Blancos squad and sensational on-field performances have seen him earmarked as one of the standout summer signings.
A Ballon d’Or award may be on the cards if he continues his ridiculous form. He finished 18th in this year’s rankings.
