The upcoming Champions League quarter-final second leg between Manchester City and Real Madrid is not only a crucial match for their respective clubs but also an audition for two of England’s brightest talents, Phil Foden and Jude Bellingham. Both players have been in sensational form this season and are vying for the number 10 role in Gareth Southgate’s England squad for Euro 2024.
In the first leg, which ended in a thrilling 3-3 draw in Madrid, both Foden and Bellingham started in the number 10 position for their clubs. Foden, in particular, was outstanding and even earned the man of the match award after scoring in the second half. This season, Foden has enjoyed playing in the number 10 role on nine occasions for City, contributing seven goals and three assists in just 1085 minutes of play. He has also been effective from the right-hand side, where he has played 18 times across all competitions, contributing to a total of 12 goals.
On the other hand, Bellingham has been a key figure for Real Madrid in the number 10 role, featuring in that position in 24 games this season. His contributions have been remarkable, with 16 goals and eight assists to his name. Bellingham’s versatility also allows him to excel in a deeper central midfield role, where he has scored two goals and provided one assist in 12 games. For England, Bellingham has predominantly played as an attacking midfielder, starting four matches in that position.
According to football stats website WhoScored, both Foden and Bellingham have received similar ratings for their performances in the number 10 role this season. Foden has been rated 7.84, while Bellingham is just behind with a rating of 7.83. These statistics reflect their impact on the game and highlight their ability to contribute to their team’s attacking play.
The question of which player should be England’s number 10 remains a topic of debate. Foden himself has expressed his preference for the role, stating that he is “100%” comfortable playing as a number 10. Former Manchester City defender Micah Richards believes Foden is best suited to the middle of the park, as he can exploit the spaces between the midfield and defense and make incisive passes.
Gareth Southgate, England’s manager, has acknowledged Foden’s preference for the number 10 role but also emphasized the importance of his defensive contributions. He has pointed out that Foden does not often play in that position for Manchester City and suggests that Pep Guardiola’s tactical decisions may be a factor. Southgate trusts Guardiola’s judgment and acknowledges that Foden has the freedom to drift when deployed on the wing.
In contrast, Bellingham has thrived in the number 10 role for Real Madrid. His performances have impressed both his club manager and opponents like Guardiola, who recognize his impact on the team. Bellingham’s defensive strengths have also allowed him to occasionally play in a deeper midfield position, but Southgate clearly sees him as a number 10.
Ultimately, the decision of who should be England’s number 10 will rest with Gareth Southgate. Both Foden and Bellingham have shown immense talent and potential this season, and their performances in the Champions League quarter-final second leg will undoubtedly have an influence on Southgate’s decision. As England prepares for Euro 2024, Southgate faces a welcome dilemma in choosing between these two exceptional young talents.