'I Owe the City' - Jude Bellingham Invests in Birmingham Phoenix as Star Plots Permanent Return

Jude Bellingham has deepened his roots with Birmingham by investing in the Birmingham Phoenix ahead of The Hundred's 2026 season. The Real Madrid star, who left boyhood club Birmingham City for Borussia Dortmund in 2020 before moving to the Spanish capital, has maintained his connection to his hometown despite his meteoric rise in European football.

'I owe the city everything,' Bellingham said in a statement released through the Phoenix organization. 'Birmingham made me who I am. When I had the opportunity to invest in the Phoenix, it felt like the right thing to do. This city gave me my first chance, and I want to give something back.'

The England international's investment comes as he continues to establish himself as one of the world's best midfielders at the Bernabeu. The 22-year-old has been instrumental in Real Madrid's La Liga title charge this season, contributing 12 goals and 8 assists across all competitions.

Birmingham Phoenix, owned by a consortium including Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, competes in England's innovative Hundred competition. The franchise finished mid-table in the 2025 season but has been rebuilding with a mix of international stars and promising young English talent.

Bellingham's involvement adds to a growing list of football stars diversifying into other sports investments. Harry Kane invested in a London-based cricket franchise last year, while several Premier League players have taken equity stakes in various sporting ventures.

The midfielder's connection to Birmingham runs deep. He made his professional debut for Birmingham City at just 16 years old, becoming the Blues' youngest ever first-team player. His subsequent £25 million move to Dortmund in 2020 marked one of the most significant youth transfers in English football history.

While Bellingham focuses on Real Madrid's Champions League push, sources close to the player suggest he's keen to maintain his Birmingham connections and potentially return to watch Phoenix matches when his schedule permits during international breaks.