Germany legend Philipp Lahm says teenage midfielder Jude Bellingham has been the Bundesliga’s best player this year.
The former Bayern Munich full-back hasn’t let his club allegiance get in the way of proclaiming Bellingham the Bundesliga’s best player so far in 2022-23.
While another young player in Jamal Musiala is putting in flashy performances in Bavaria, Lahm couldn't look past the England midfielder at his former club's biggest rival.
Bellingham brought his excellent form to Qatar, starring for England at the 2022 World Cup as the Three Lions reached the quarterfinals, adding to Lahm's argument. Musiala was also exceptional in Qatar, but Germany crashed out in the group stage.
MORE: Liverpool January transfer news as rumours of a move for Bellingham swirl
What did Philipp Lahm say about Jude Bellingham?
Lahm knows that being named the best player in the league is always a high honor, and he believes the young England international is the pick midway through the year. "That's always difficult to answer,” Lahm told the Bundesliga’s official website about selecting a player of the season.
“In a year like this, of course, there must be a bit of World Cup in the mix. I think, if there is one to choose, I'd have to say Jude Bellingham from Borussia Dortmund, who has developed very well so far. He is a crucial player at BVB."
The former German star thinks another young standout could be in the mix come the end of the season.
"Also, Jamal Musiala, who especially in 2022-23 so far has [been important] in almost all games for Bayern Munich," Lahm said. "He also had three good games at the World Cup. I would say those are the [standout] players because others have also struggled a bit."
Lahm added that the injury struggles of RB Leipzig’s Christopher Nkunku, who won top honours last term, have helped Bellingham gain control of the player of the year race. Plus, Robert Lewandowski’s departure from Bayern to Barcelona eliminated another main rival to Bellingham.
Premier League 2022/23 TV channels, live streams
Jude Bellingham is currently plying his trade in the Bundesliga, but he's been heavily linked with a move to both Liverpool or Manchester City.
It remains to be seen whether that will happen this winter or if Borussia Dortmund will hold off until the summer, but either way, it seems inevitable that the young England international will eventually move back to his home nation to play his club ball.
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