Jude Bellingham has rapidly risen to prominence as one of the most exciting young talents in football. Primarily known for his midfield prowess, the question arises: could Bellingham be utilized effectively as a false 9? To answer this, we need to delve into his playing style, the false 9 role, and how these elements might align.
Understanding the False 9 Role
The false 9 is a tactical innovation that diverges from traditional striker roles. Unlike a conventional number 9 who leads the line and stays forward, a false 9 drops deeper into the midfield. This movement creates space by pulling defenders out of position, allowing wingers and midfielders to exploit the gaps. The role requires exceptional technical skills, vision, and the ability to link play effectively.
Jude Bellingham’s Attributes
Versatility and Intelligence:
Bellingham is celebrated for his versatility. At Borussia Dortmund and now at Real Madrid, he has demonstrated his ability to play in various midfield roles, from a deep-lying playmaker to an advanced attacking midfielder. His football intelligence is remarkable for his age, evidenced by his positioning, decision-making, and adaptability on the pitch.
Technical Skills:
Bellingham’s technical abilities are top-notch. He possesses excellent ball control, dribbling skills, and a keen sense for threading precise passes. These skills are essential for a false 9, who needs to hold up play, distribute the ball, and dribble out of tight spaces.
Physicality and Work Rate:
Standing at 6’1″, Bellingham combines physicality with endurance. His work rate is exceptional, often seen pressing opponents, tracking back defensively, and making late runs into the box. This physical presence can be beneficial in a false 9 role, allowing him to shield the ball and compete with defenders.
Goal Scoring Ability:
Although primarily a midfielder, Bellingham has shown a knack for scoring goals. He often finds himself in goal-scoring positions due to his intelligent runs and timing. His finishing ability, while not his primary attribute, is proficient enough to suggest he could handle the goal-scoring responsibilities of a false 9.
Tactical Fit
Creating Space:
In the false 9 role, Bellingham’s movement would be pivotal. His tendency to drop deep could draw defenders out, creating space for wingers and overlapping full-backs to exploit. This aligns with his natural inclination to participate in build-up play and link the midfield with the attack.
Pressing Game:
Modern football emphasizes pressing, and Bellingham’s high work rate and defensive awareness make him suited for initiating the press from the front. His energy and tactical discipline would enable him to disrupt the opposition’s build-up play effectively.
Playmaking:
As a false 9, Bellingham’s vision and passing range would be crucial. He could act as the playmaker, receiving the ball between the lines and distributing it to onrushing teammates. His ability to drive forward with the ball would add another dimension, making it difficult for defenders to predict his next move.
Potential Challenges
Finishing Under Pressure:
While Bellingham is a competent finisher, the false 9 role demands a high level of goal-scoring under pressure. Adapting to this expectation could take time, especially against top-tier defenses.
Transitioning Roles:
Switching from a dynamic midfield role to a false 9 involves significant tactical adjustments. Bellingham would need to refine his positioning and movement patterns to fit the new responsibilities seamlessly.
Jude Bellingham possesses many attributes that could allow him to thrive as a false 9. His technical skills, vision, and versatility align well with the demands of the role. However, adapting to this position would require time and tactical adjustment. If deployed correctly, Bellingham could redefine his role and add another layer to his already impressive repertoire. While it remains speculative, the idea of Bellingham as a false 9 is an intriguing prospect that could offer tactical flexibility to his team.