He’s exceptional player – Van Nistelrooy hails Real Madrid star

Former Real Madrid and Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy has said that midfielder Jude Bellingham is dealing with unjust demands in Carlo Ancelotti’s system of play.

The Netherlands international, however, hailed the midfielder, saying the England international has performed admirably to go above and beyond the mountain of expectations from fans and the club.

Nistelrooy spent four seasons at Real Madrid, where he scored 64 goals and provided 16 assists in 96 appearances across all competitions.

During his days at Santiago Bernabeu, the former striker won the La Liga Golden Boot in his first season after netting 25 times in 37 appearances.

He praised the England international’s unexpected goalscoring form and his all-around impressive first season at the club.

Van Nistelrooy said (via AS): “That Jude has so many goals is an extra, a bonus. He is a splendid all-rounder who arrives phenomenally on the second line; he runs, he defends, he has a vision of the game, and he makes quick transitions. We cannot demand that he be a scorer and, nevertheless, he is one.”

He added: “His season is spectacular and must be valued in the right way for him. It doesn’t matter that Ancelotti has changed his role; he performs wherever he is put, because he is an exceptional player.”