World Cup 2026: The Showdown of Two Real Madrid Stars

After both missing out on the final, Mbappé and Bellingham will have the chance to face each other directly at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. While Mbappé is likely to still take the field to continue his race for the Golden Boot, Bellingham's participation remains uncertain after the English midfielder expressed deep disappointment over the "Three Lions'" 1-2 semifinal loss to Argentina.

Since Mbappé joined Real Madrid in the summer of 2024, he and Bellingham have become two pillars of the Spanish royal club. However, Spanish media have repeatedly mentioned disagreements between the two stars, from on-field arguments to situations where they were said to keep their distance from each other after matches.

According to French media, the differences mainly stem from professional factors. To allow Mbappé to maximize his scoring ability, coach Carlo Ancelotti once adjusted the tactical system, forcing Bellingham to take on a role that was not his strength. Later, under coach Xabi Alonso, the two players also had differing views on the Spanish tactician's coaching methods.

Nevertheless, sources say the relationship between Mbappé and Bellingham has always been maintained in a professional and mutually respectful spirit. Evidence of this came late last year when Bellingham, not being called up to the England squad by coach Thomas Tuchel, proactively asked Mbappé about working with the German manager, who had previously coached the French captain at Paris Saint-Germain.

Both have also publicly exchanged positive remarks about each other on multiple occasions. Bellingham once praised Mbappé as a player possessing rare speed, technique, and game-changing ability, while Mbappé called his younger teammate "a born leader" with outstanding composure in matches.

The third-place match will therefore offer a special showdown between two of Real Madrid's brightest stars. Although they no longer have a chance to compete for the title, both Mbappé and Bellingham are expected to continue playing leading roles for their national teams, closing out the 2026 World Cup with a performance worthy of the status of world-class players.