'Jude Bellingham walked into my restaurant – this is what he's like away from football'

Spanish restaurant workers could not believe their eyes when they saw Jude Bellingham eat at their establishment – and they were even more shocked by his mild-mannered demeanour. The Real Madrid maestro has not linked up with England for the international break as he is recovering from a calf injury.

Instead of competing in Lee Carsley’s first Three Lions’ squad as interim manager, Bellingham took some time out of his recovery to dine at a local hotspot with his mother. Despite his stardom being encapsulated by a Ballon d’Or nomination, Bellingham proved his feet are still grounded with his choice of location and kind demeanour.

He sauntered into a restaurant in one of Madrid’s most popular squares and ate amongst shocked locals and stunned tourists. The restaurant’s owner couldn’t contain their excitement when they saw the 21-year-old.

A bartender from the admired Madrid spot La Buha said to Relovo: “We were all freaking out. He arrived, asked for a table and we told him there was one available.

Another member of staff also said: “I can’t believe a Real Madrid footballer sat down here like any other person.”

For his meal, Bellingham didn’t shy away from the Spanish classics, reportedly tucking into Tortilla de Patatas, delicious croquettes, exquisite ham and topping it off with a generous serving of sangria to share with his mother, reports the Mirror. It was also reported that he was happy to interact with fans and locals who wanted to pose for a photo with him.

Bellingham has been spotted in Madrid on numerous occasions, but is normally found in the city’s more fashionable districts. However, this time around, he was seen exploring some of Madrid’s humbler areas.

Last year, he was also spotted by fans at a busy pedestrian crossing with dozens of other walkers in the Spanish capital. This season, Bellingham has only made two appearances due to a calf injury sustained during their 1-1 draw against Real Mallorca.

The former Birmingham City captain was in the stands to witness his team’s recent 2-0 victory over Real Betis at home. He did not join the England squad for the Three Lions Nations’ League matches against Ireland and Finland.

Bellingham had an impressive debut season with Los Blancos, contributing 23 goals and 13 assists in 42 appearances across all competitions, ending the campaign by winning La Liga and the Champions League. Fans are now eagerly awaiting his return to see how he performs alongside Kylian Mbappe, who joined from Paris Saint-Germain this summer.