MADRID – Real Madrid’s 6-1 demolition of AS Monaco in the Champions League was capped off by a moment that has set the internet ablaze. While the scoreline was historic, it was Jude Bellingham’s unusual celebration after scoring the final goal that became the night’s biggest talking point.
After receiving a pinpoint pass from Federico Valverde, Bellingham rounded goalkeeper Philipp Köhn with trademark composure to slot home. However, instead of his iconic open-arms pose, the No. 5 opted for a “drinking” gesture that left fans and pundits scrambling for an explanation.
The Internet Reacts: Drunk Accusations or Hater Tears?
Social media was instantly flooded with theories. While some fans on X (formerly Twitter) were left confused, others quickly connected the dots to recent tabloid rumors in Spain.
“He’s dragging the Spanish media! They called him a ‘drunk’ in their reports last week,” one fan clarified, referring to recent unverified claims about the midfielder’s lifestyle during a dip in form. Others took a more defiant stance: “He’s drinking the tears of the haters. Keep drinking, Jude!”
Bellingham Breaks His Silence
Speaking after the match, Bellingham addressed the gesture that went viral in minutes. Quoted by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the England star didn’t hold back in his response to the external noise.
“My celebration? A lot of people say a lot of things,” Bellingham told reporters at the Santiago Bernabéu. “You can cry about it, or you can enjoy it. I was just returning a joke to those who talk too much. I know the truth.”
Jude Bellingham’s celebration, I’m crying 😭😭😭 pic.twitter.com/DBHBP8OBqP
— TC (@totalcristiano) January 20, 2026
Back to His Best
The goal and the defiant celebration mark a turning point for Bellingham, who has faced intense scrutiny during an inconsistent patch. Alongside Vinícius Júnior’s record-breaking night, Bellingham’s return to the scoresheet proves that Real Madrid’s superstars are finding their rhythm exactly when it matters most in the Champions League.
Thiago Nuno is a football editor and analyst covering European leagues, match statistics, and transfer market trends.
