Jude Bellingham on joining Borussia Dortmund: “I want to take further steps in my development.”

Speaking in an interview with Sport Bild, 17-year-old Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham discusses competition for midfield places and his reasoning behind joining BVB.

“I want to take further steps in my development,” said Bellingham. “This includes playing as often as possible and proving myself at the highest level of the Bundesliga and Champions League.

“It was important for me to prove myself from day one, despite the long and exhausting season in the Championship [last season] and to prove that I deserve a place. It’s worked out pretty well so far.”

The England youth international joined Borussia Dortmund for a €25 million fee and will find himself playing alongside the likes of Axel Witsel, Emre Can and Julian Brandt.

“It’s healthy competition. Being able to learn from these players will help me to become a better player myself. I know what I can do and I’m trying to find my way into the team. You put pressure on yourself if you don’t prepare well enough and you lack confidence. That’s why I always try to be well prepared and self-confident in order to achieve the goals I set myself.”

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