Bellingham The GOAT? Lineker thinks he could be ‘England’s greatest footballer’

Is England midfielder and 2026 World Cup star Jude Bellingham the England GOAT? Such thinking follows another masterclass from the Real Madrid midfielder, who is now England’s top scorer for the 2026 World Cup alongside Harry Kane with six goals. Bellingham’s impact was undeniable, especially in the high-pressure environment of the Round of 16. Following his two-goal performance in the 3-2 win over Mexico in the round of 16, he achieved a feat not seen in decades by scoring twice again in the 2-1 win over Norway, cementing his status as one of the world’s top talents. His ability to produce match-winning moments on the biggest stage has led many to wonder how high the youngster’s ceiling may be. Bellingham is the first player to score twice in consecutive knockout matches at the same World Cup since Diego Maradona achieved the feat for Argentina in 1986. With six goals in the current edition, he joined an elite group of England players – including Lineker himself in 1986 and Kane in 2018 and 2026 – to score at least five goals in a single tournament. Nine of Bellingham’s 12 international goals have now come at major tournaments, highlighting his knack for performing when the stakes are highest. Speaking on Netflix’s ‘The Rest is Football’, former England striker Lineker was unequivocal on the midfielder’s trajectory. “I would go so far as to say that I think there is a chance that he could become, or end up being, the greatest English footballer of all time. And that’s a big cry,” he said. Entering The Bracket Of Charlton And Kane Lineker acknowledged that England have produced world-class talent throughout their history, but noted that Bellingham possesses a rare combination of leadership and technical ability. Since making his international debut against Ireland in 2020, the midfielder has won 54 caps and scored 12 goals for the Three Lions, helping England reach back-to-back Euro finals in 2020 and 2024. Lineker placed the Madrid star alongside 1966 hero Bobby Charlton and current captain Kane while discussing the hierarchy of English football legends. “We’ve had some really great players. Some of them didn’t necessarily succeed for their country, others did,” Lineker explained. “Going back to people like Bobby Charlton, obviously I’d say you’d have to be up there. You’d put Harry Kane in that category and there are other players as well, but I think at that age, doing what he does and grabbing England by the skin and taking them over the line, he’s a superstar.” Looks at the semi-final showdown Bellingham’s exploits against Norway set up a mouth-watering semi-final against Argentina, providing the midfielder with another opportunity to bolster his growing legend. The Birmingham City academy graduate is determined to capitalize on his exceptional form to lead England to their first World Cup final since winning their only title in 1966.