Birmingham City chairman Tom Wagner has publicly hailed Jude Bellingham as the best player in the world and expressed his hope for a future reunion, following the spectacular unveiling of the club's proposed new stadium.
A Star-Studded Stadium Reveal
The grand event at Digbeth Loc was attended by a host of dignitaries, including Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight and chairman Tom Wagner himself. The centrepiece of the evening was the reveal of the designs for a 62,000-seater stadium, a project Wagner aims to have operational within the next five years.
Adding a touch of stardust to the proceedings was a pre-recorded video from Real Madrid and England superstar Jude Bellingham. The former Blues academy product was shown examining the ambitious plans for his boyhood club's new home.
Wagner's 'Coming Home' Plea
Speaking after the presentation, Wagner was directly questioned about the potential of luring the 22-year-old midfielder back to St. Andrew's one day and the role the new ground could play in such a move.
The chairman did not hold back in his praise, stating: "I think Jude is the greatest player on the planet today and we haven't seen anywhere near his full potential yet." He emphasised that Bellingham's impact extends beyond the pitch, adding, "Not just as a player on the pitch but also what he can do for the community."
Wagner framed a potential return as a compelling narrative, saying, "And so if we can provide him a platform to achieve his full potential then it's a great story. It's a great coming home story. It's a great Birmingham story, it's a great England story."
Bellingham's Blues Legacy
Jude Bellingham's connection to Birmingham City runs deep. He joined the club as a child and progressed through its academy, making history as Blues' youngest ever first-team player at just 16 years old.
His immense talent quickly outgrew the club's situation at the time, leading to a transfer to Borussia Dortmund after just one senior season. His career has since skyrocketed, featuring stellar performances for the England national team and winning the UEFA Champions League with Spanish giants Real Madrid.
The unveiling of the new stadium and the direct appeal from the club's chairman now fuels speculation about a future fairytale return for the city's favourite footballing son.
