Bellingham won the Kopa Trophy at the Ballon d’Or awards and adds the Golden Boy to his growing collectionCredit: Rex

Bellingham joins Messi and Wayne Rooney in a long list of legends who were once recognised as the most promising young talent in world football.

While others, such as Renato Sanches and Anthony Martial, never fulfilled their true potential – Bellingham has the opportunity to go one better than Messi already.

The Argentina icon won his eighth Ballon d’Or earlier this year after guiding his nation to World Cup glory at Qatar 2022.

Messi was the Golden Boy in 2005 but did not win his first Ballon d’Or for another four years.

Bellingham, however, could become the first player in history to win the Golden Boy and Ballon d’Or awards in back-to-back years.

The 20-year-old has already emerged as the favourite to take the crown in 2024.

Having already scored 15 goals in 17 matches for Madrid from midfield, Bellingham is also expected to play a starring role for tournament-favourites England at Euro 2024 next summer.

However, the Birmingham boy is expected to face fierce competition from Man City striker Erling Haaland and PSG forward Kylian Mbappe in the years to come.

Messi turned out to be alright after winning the Golden Boy award in 2005Credit: AFP

The young trio have already separated themselves in world football and many expect them to trade this generation’s Ballon d’Or awards, much like Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo over the past 15 years.

Speaking on Monday, Bellingham said: “I’m proud to win the Golden Boy Award.

“My secret is the responsibility since I was a kid in the Academy. I love that.

“I want to get better every day and help Real Madrid. My focus is on that.

“Real Madrid is the best club in the world. I’m proud to play for Madrid. I want to win all the trophies with my club and the England national team.”