Jude Bellingham has explained the brief argument he had with Lionel Messi during England’s FIFA World Cup semifinal against Argentina, saying it was nothing more than a discussion over a foul.
The exchange between the two stars drew attention during the first half of Argentina’s dramatic 2-1 victory in Atlanta. However, Bellingham said there was no bad feeling between them.
“We were really just discussing a foul, actually,” Bellingham said.
“It wasn’t anything bad. I’m sure everyone will do their thing and make it a big deal, but it was nothing.”
The England midfielder then revealed what was said during the moment.
“I thought there had been a foul earlier,” he said.
“He said, ‘What about the one on me?’ And I was saying, ‘You’re strong enough to take it.’ You know what I mean?”
Although England suffered another painful World Cup exit, Bellingham spoke with great respect about Messi after the match.
The Real Madrid midfielder called it a privilege to play against one of football’s greatest players.
“Obviously, I’m on the losing side, which hurts a lot,” Bellingham said.
“But it’s a privilege to play against him.”
England looked set for a place in the final after Anthony Gordon gave them the lead in the second half. Argentina, however, turned the game around with late goals from Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez. Messi provided both assists as the defending champions reached another World Cup final.
Bellingham admitted the defeat was difficult to accept and apologised to England’s supporters.
“It’s heartbreaking,” he said.
“I wanted to be part of the England team that finally got it done. Standing here telling the fans the same things they’ve probably heard for years and years is really heartbreaking. I’m sorry.”
England will now face France in the third place playoff, while Argentina will meet Spain in the World Cup final.
