Toni Kroos has declared Jude Bellingham can become the world’s best midfielder after the 22-year-old’s explosive start to England’s World Cup campaign.
The German midfield legend made the bold claim on his *Kroos & Kroos* TikTok live show on 18 June 2026, hours after Bellingham powered England to a 4-2 victory over Croatia in Dallas. The Real Madrid star scored England’s third goal with a clinical finish, silencing critics who doubted his place in the starting XI under Thomas Tuchel.
What did Toni Kroos say?
Kroos, who shared a pitch with Bellingham at Real Madrid last season, called the young Englishman’s first year in Madrid “crazy.” He said: “I knew him from Dortmund but being his teammate showed me the level he could reach in his first season at Madrid.
“His last two seasons were tougher, yet I still rate him as one of the most complete midfielders in the world. If he’s on top form, he is the best midfielder in the world—or he could be.”
Why it matters for Toni Kroos
The praise carries weight coming from Kroos, a Ballon d’Or winner and one of the most decorated midfielders of his generation. He highlighted Bellingham’s intelligence, runs, and ability to protect the ball as traits that make him special.
“For a defensive midfielder, having a number 10 like him running, opening spaces, and protecting the ball makes everything easier,” Kroos said. “The things I see in him are very special.”
What comes next for Bellingham and England?
England face Ghana in Boston on 22 June 2026, and Bellingham looks set to start after his match-winning display. Tuchel admitted it was an “easy decision” to pick him, praising his mentality and adaptability.
Rio Ferdinand also chimed in, calling Bellingham a “big moments player” with the maturity to anchor England’s midfield. Tuchel added: “He loves pressure games—it brings out the best in him.”
England’s World Cup campaign resumes on Tuesday with a clash that could define their group-stage path.