Jude Bellingham is facing headlines off the pitch as much as on it, with fresh reports from Germany suggesting growing tension within his family. The Real Madrid midfielder, who was not selected for England’s latest squad, has now seen attention turn to events in the stands during his brother Jobe’s recent match.
At Borussia Dortmund’s midweek fixture, Jude’s parents, Denise and Mark Bellingham, were seen sitting separately in the stadium’s VIP area. According to German outlet BILD, the pair did not interact during the game, with Mark reportedly speaking only to another relative while Denise kept her distance.
The publication claims there is a “dangerously tense atmosphere” surrounding the family, suggesting it has affected 20-year-old Jobe, who is said to be feeling “massively insecure” under the pressure of the situation.
This isn’t the first sign of strain reported this season. In August, the Bellingham parents were allegedly told to stay away from Dortmund’s dressing room after an incident said to involve Mark reacting angrily to Jobe being substituted at half-time. Dortmund staff were understood to have stepped in to calm things down.
Denise and Mark have been known to divide their time between Spain and Germany to support both of their sons since Jude joined Real Madrid in 2023 for close to £90 million. Denise also plays a major role in Jude’s career, handling his financial affairs so he can focus solely on football. The pair previously shared a flat in the Spanish capital, but it is unclear where the parents are now based following Jobe’s move to Dortmund.
Their strong involvement has long been seen as a key part of the brothers’ development, and Jude has spoken openly about the influence of his mother in particular. Speaking at his Madrid unveiling, he said: “The role my mum is playing is massive — probably the biggest of anyone.”
While Jude remains one of the most high-profile young players in Europe, his form and fitness have been under scrutiny this season. England manager Thomas Tuchel has opted to keep faith with the group he selected in September, leaving out Bellingham along with Phil Foden and Jack Grealish. Tuchel said the decision was based on continuity and noted that Jude has yet to regain full rhythm in Madrid this season.
Jobe, meanwhile, is still searching for consistency at Dortmund. The midfielder has not completed a full 90 minutes in any of his 12 league appearances and struggled again during the club’s 4–1 Champions League win over Athletic Bilbao on Wednesday.
Between reports of family strain and the recent squad decision at international level, the attention on the Bellingham brothers now stretches well beyond the pitch. Whether the situation settles or escalates further remains to be seen, but the spotlight on one of football’s most famous sporting families shows no sign of dimming.
