Jude Bellingham ‘lost it with Gareth Southgate’ during unseen second-half exchange in England’s Euro 2024 final defeat by Spain

Jude Bellingham reportedly ‘lost it’ with England manager Gareth Southgate at a crucial moment in Sunday’s Euro 2024 final defeat, according to reports.

The Three Lions’ dream of a silver medal came to an abrupt end when Spain ran out 2-1 winners in Berlin, completing a stunning victory inside 90 minutes.

Bellingham struggled personally in the tournament and appeared to suffer from fatigue in the final as Spain dominated midfield in the second half.

The 21-year-old entered the tournament having enjoyed a stellar first season with Real Madrid, winning three trophies, including the Champions League, and being a key player in the England squad.

Bellingham and Southgate appear to have a close and respectful relationship as player and coach, but according to ESPN’s Mark Ogden, the confrontation in the final moments of the Euro 2024 final turned heated.

Southgate replaced captain Harry Kane in the second half as he struggled to make an impact

Bellingham and Southgate reportedly clashed as England trailed Spain at the Olympiastadion

Kane retained his starting position up front despite Southgate’s recent disappointing performances, but was sent off by Ollie Watkins with 30 minutes remaining.

Bellingham expressed his frustration at the England manager for not making the change earlier. Kane proved ineffective against a strong Spanish defence, which was only breached once when Cole Palmer equalised in the second half.

Ogden described Bellingham’s angry exchange with Southgate as follows: ‘Jude Bellingham got frustrated, I don’t know if that was on camera.

‘Just before Kane was substituted, Bellingham panicked when Gareth Southgate was standing on the sidelines, as if to say, “change something, do something”, and Kane was substituted.

‘Once Kane came off the pitch, Watkins came on and then Cole Palmer, England played so much better,’ he added.

The England and Madrid star was left deeply disappointed after the final whistle as Spain celebrated their victory and the Three Lions were left lamenting a missed opportunity to win their first major men’s title since 1966.

Bellingham showed his leadership qualities by supporting his emotional colleagues, who stood on the field and cried as they waited to receive their second medal.

The Stourbridge talent returned to London on Monday with disappointed England stars and will now take some well-earned time off before reporting for pre-season training.

Meanwhile, the next time he goes on international duty could be under a new manager as Southgate awaits a decision on his future as Three Lions manager.

Southgate offers tactical advice to Bellingham as England struggle to beat Spain

The 53-year-old has been in charge of the country since 2016, leading England to four major tournaments, including reaching the final of the European Championship twice, but was defeated on both occasions.

Southgate was criticised for Euro 2024 over a disappointing group stage performance and a struggling knockout stage performance, with Bellingham saving England by scoring in the dying minutes of the last-16 tie against Slovakia.

The English Football Association had previously indicated that they wanted him to remain in charge of the next World Cup, which will be held in Canada, Mexico and the United States in two years’ time.

However, alternative options could be explored as critics want Southgate to step down over his failure to win trophies.