Sports · 11 July 2026
Bellingham and Haaland's friendship offers a refreshing break from football's online negativity
England's Jude Bellingham and Norway's Erling Haaland's close friendship has captured attention online, especially during the World Cup. Their camaraderie, which started when they played for Borussia Dortmund, offers a positive contrast to the more hostile parts of social media. The two young players are seen as authentic and affectionate, challenging typical displays of masculinity in football.
Reported by BBC · How we write briefs