KRISTJAAN Speakman feels Jobe Bellingham’s success on Wearside and record-breaking move to Borussia Dortmund demonstrate the “strength of Sunderland’s strategy and what’s possible”.
The club’s sporting director stated that Bellingham “lived and breathed Sunderland every step of the way” during his two years on Wearside and feels the midfielder left an indelible mark at the Stadium of Light.
Bellingham has finalised his move to Borussia Dortmund, signing for €33 million and €5 million in add-ons.
According to Sunderland insiders, the add-ons are “realistic”. The agreement also includes a 15% sell-on charge. The departure ends Bellingham’s two-year stint at Sunderland, which resulted in his promotion to the Premier League last month.
Bellingham was a standout for Regis Le Bris’ team last season, starting 39 and appearing in 40 of Sunderland’s regular Championship games before playing every minute in the winning play-off campaign.
Despite gaining promotion with Sunderland, Bellingham thought it was time to move on and wanted to follow in his brother Jude’s footsteps and join Dortmund.
The move was disclosed on Tuesday afternoon, ahead of the first summer deadline at 7 p.m. UK time. Bellingham is now eligible to represent Dortmund at the 2017 Club World Cup.
Speakman stated, “I had no concerns that Jobe would grow with us at Sunderland. “He has an unwavering commitment to improvement that only the best have, and his progress is evident to all.
“The sacrifices and obstacles along the way are less evident, and I couldn’t be more proud of how he’s handled himself and embraced the club, the city, and our fans.
“He’s spent his entire life in Sunderland. For our club, it demonstrates the strength of our plan and what is feasible. “Jobe wanted to tell his own story, be a part of a new Sunderland, and leave a lasting impression.
He accomplished all of this, and while we are naturally disappointed to lose a player of Jobe’s calibre, everyone at SAFC wishes him the best in the next phase of his career.” Before the departure, Bellingham posted an emotional farewell to his Instagram page.
He stated, “It’s time for me to say goodbye to all the loyal people of Sunderland, who have propelled me through two amazing years in red and white. “Your support has utterly blown me away on numerous occasions, particularly during times of struggle when we worked together to overcome obstacles.
“You embraced me with open arms when I first left home as a child, and I am glad that our friendship has become so close since then.
Since I arrived at your beloved football club, you have been loyal in your support for the team and me, and for that, I am eternally grateful to you as individuals and supporters.
“I will always represent Wearside in all I do for the remainder of my career, no matter where it leads me.
“I hope I’ve made you proud along the road, and you’ve helped me become the player I am today. So, thank you.
“I’ll love and remember you for the rest of my life, from the bottom of my heart.
“I attempted to express your passion for the city on the football ground, and I’m overjoyed that our journey ended with a triumph at Wembley Stadium, restoring the club to its due place.
“To the staff, players, and, most importantly, supporters, thank you very much, and best wishes for the future.
“Jobe, adopted Mackem.”
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