What Number Is Jude Bellingham? Real Madrid Jersey Revealed

By Sarah Miller · December 18, 2038

Jude Bellingham wears the number 5 jersey for Real Madrid in La Liga and UEFA competitions as of the 2025–2026 season.

Why Does Jude Bellingham Wear Number 5?

Since joining Real Madrid in June 2023, Jude Bellingham has become a central figure in the team's midfield. Initially expected to take a higher number associated with attacking roles, he instead chose the number 5, a number historically linked with defensive midfielders and deep-lying playmakers at Real Madrid.

Historical Significance of the Number 5 at Real Madrid

The number 5 jersey at Real Madrid carries a legacy of world-class players known for their tactical intelligence and control of the game. Notable past wearers include:

Zinedine Zidane – One of the greatest midfielders of all time, wore number 5 from 2001 to 2006.
Kaká – The 2007 Ballon d'Or winner donned the number during his stint from 2009 to 2013.
Ancelotti (as player) – The current manager also wore number 5 during his playing days in the late 1980s.

Bellingham's choice reflects his evolving role as a complete midfielder, blending creativity, physicality, and leadership.

Jude Bellingham's Jersey Numbers Throughout His Career

Bellingham has worn different numbers depending on the club and national team context. Below is a detailed timeline of his jersey numbers:

Team	Years Active	Jersey Number	Notable Achievements
Birmingham City	2019–2020	22	Youngest first-team player in club history
Borussia Dortmund	2020–2023	22	Scored 41 goals in 132 appearances
Real Madrid	2023–Present	5	La Liga Champion (2024), Champions League Winner (2024)
England National Team	2020–Present	22	UEFA Euro 2024 finalist, England's key playmaker

Table data source:1, 2, 3

The data shows that while Bellingham consistently wore number 22 at Birmingham City, Borussia Dortmund, and with England, his move to Real Madrid marked a symbolic shift by adopting the prestigious number 5. This change aligns with his transition into a more central, influential role within the team structure.

Number Assignment Rules in La Liga and UEFA

In La Liga, squad numbers range from 1 to 25 for the first team, with exceptions for youth players promoted mid-season. Players can request specific numbers if available. At Real Madrid, high-profile signings often choose numbers with historical significance.

In UEFA competitions like the Champions League, clubs must register a fixed squad list with assigned numbers, typically matching domestic league usage.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jude Bellingham's Number

What number does Jude Bellingham wear at Real Madrid?

Jude Bellingham wears the number 5 jersey for Real Madrid in both La Liga and UEFA Champions League matches.

Why did Jude Bellingham choose number 5?

He chose number 5 to honor the legacy of legendary midfielders like Zinedine Zidane and to symbolize his role as a central, controlling force in Real Madrid's midfield.

Did Jude Bellingham ever wear number 10?

No, Jude Bellingham has never officially worn the number 10 jersey for any professional club or the England national team.

Why does Jude Bellingham wear number 22 for England?

He wears number 22 for England because it has been his preferred number since his professional debut at Birmingham City, representing consistency and personal identity.

Has the number 5 jersey always been available at Real Madrid?

No, the number 5 was previously worn by players like Zidane and Kaká. After Casemiro left in 2022, the number became vacant until Bellingham claimed it in 2023.