Jobe Bellingham 2025

Jobe Bellingham: “You have to listen to your heart” – Ex-Sunderland star opens up on Dortmund move

John William Last updated: Jun 21, 2025, 4:36 pm
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Image: IMAGO / Sportimage

Jobe Bellingham Dortmund transfer: The 18-year-old former Sunderland star has opened up about the emotional and deeply personal decision to join Borussia Dortmund — despite initially resisting the idea of following in his brother Jude’s footsteps.

Currently starring at the Club World Cup, Bellingham says he once rejected the idea of joining Dortmund altogether, but a powerful message from CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke changed his perspective.

“You have to listen to your heart – and that’s what I did.” — Jobe Bellingham

“I Was Biased Against Dortmund Because of Jude”

In a candid interview with OneFootball, Bellingham admitted he didn’t want to be seen as simply following in his older brother’s shadow.

“It may sound contradictory, but I was biased against Dortmund for a long time – precisely because Jude played here,” he confessed.

But after a crucial conversation with Watzke, his mindset shifted:

“It’s not about being different. It’s about doing the right thing. And for me, that was Dortmund.”

Life at Dortmund – and the Club World Cup Challenge

Having signed for Dortmund before flying out to the Club World Cup, Bellingham said he’s adapting well, but noted the tournament’s unique challenges.

“It’s difficult – especially the humidity and the heat. It’s completely different to anything I experienced in Sunderland or Dortmund.”

Despite the physical demands, he’s enjoying the experience and praised the support he’s received from teammates and staff.

Why His Shirt Says “Jobe”, Not “Bellingham”

One of the more talked-about decisions is Bellingham wearing only his first name on the back of his shirt — something that’s raised eyebrows among fans.

“It didn’t have any deeper meaning – but it’s become something unique. It shows I’m going my own way.”

“Some people don’t like it – I don’t care. You can’t follow your goal and listen to everyone.”

Role Models and Midfield Study

Bellingham also revealed his obsession with studying great midfielders to sharpen his own game:

“I’ve seen the Gerrard documentary so many times. I also watch Vieira a lot. Maradona? Amazing – but he was too good, you can’t copy that.”
His hunger to improve — and walk his own path — is evident in every quote.

  • Jobe Bellingham Dortmund transfer confirmed after personal U-turn
  • Former Sunderland star admits he was “biased” against following brother Jude
  • Watzke’s advice changed his mind: “Do the right thing”
  • Explains shirt name decision: “It’s my way, not Jude’s”
  • Midfield role model obsessions: Vieira, Gerrard, Maradona



Is Jobe Bellingham making the right call at Dortmund?

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