Real Madrid midfielder, Jude Bellingham has criticized the pitches at the Club World Cup and implored FIFA to make sure they are improved before the 2026 World Cup.
Twelve stadiums in the United States of America are hosting the redesigned Club World Cup, and five of those locations will be used again next summer.
According to The Mirror, after playing in two Real Madrid games, Bellingham has expressed dissatisfaction with the current situation and has cautioned that changes must be made to “protect the players” prior to the World Cup.
“The pitches aren’t great here, honestly,” Bellingham said after his side’s 3-1 win over Pachuca.
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“It’s really hot, I know it’s the same for everyone but I’m only saying because you asked me. The pitches aren’t great at all.
“It holds up, the ball barely bounces and it’s tough on the knees as well. Hopefully it’s something that someone will look at, going into the World Cup next year.
“It’s important that we protect the players as well as giving the fans a spectacle.”
Bellingham, who has been dealing with an injury since 2023, has also stated that he will have shoulder surgery following the competition.
“I’ve reached the point where the pain isn’t so bad, but I was sick of playing with the sling,” he explained.
“I’m losing a lot of weight from sweating so much, and I’ve decided that I’ll have surgery after the tournament.
“I’ve been waiting for a long time, and my patience is running out, but the physios and doctors have been incredible. I just want to feel free.”
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