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- Why was Jude Bellingham at Birmingham City vs Barcelona? The story behind his visit
Why was Jude Bellingham at Birmingham City vs Barcelona? The story behind his visit
Jude Bellingham caught fans' attention by attending the friendly between Birmingham City and Barcelona while enjoying his vacation following the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Jude Bellingham caught fans' attention by attending the friendly between Birmingham City and Barcelona while enjoying his vacation following the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The reason is simple: Birmingham City is the club where his professional career began.
Where Jude Bellingham's career started
Bellingham spent one season with Birmingham City's first team during the 2019-20 campaign, making 44 appearances, scoring four goals, and providing two assists.
His impact was so significant that, at just 17 years old, the club decided to retire his iconic No. 22 shirt.
In the statement announcing the decision, Birmingham City said:
"The number 22 has become synonymous with Jude and his rise to the first team at just 16 years of age. Therefore, the club has decided to retire his number to remember one of our own and inspire the next generation."
The transfer that helped Birmingham City
According to Mundo Deportivo, Bellingham's transfer to Borussia Dortmund was completed for €30.15 million, approximately US$35 million.
The deal provided significant financial relief for Birmingham City during a difficult economic period and helped stabilize much of the club's finances.
That connection explains why the England international chose to return to watch Birmingham City's friendly against Barcelona while on his post-World Cup break.
