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Bellingham faces Tuchel's starter test in England return
Jude Bellingham's recall to England's squad for the final World Cup qualifiers marks the start of a critical phase for the Real Madrid midfielder, as head coach Thomas Tuchel insists his place in the starting XI is not guaranteed-despite his global stature.
England's matches against Serbia at Wembley and in Albania carry little competitive weight, with qualification already secured. Yet for Bellingham, the stakes remain high. Tuchel's decision to omit him from the previous camp-even as the team clinched their World Cup berth-sent an unambiguous message: talent alone does not ensure selection.
No special treatment for 'superstar' status
Tuchel's stance underscores a meritocratic approach. The 22-year-old's absence last month, despite his desire to participate, reinforced that England's strategy will not revolve around any single player-even one of his caliber. Now, Bellingham must prove his indispensability in a squad where competition for the number 10 role has intensified.
His return follows shoulder surgery, adding urgency to his need to impress. "Jude accepted the decision last time," Tuchel noted. "He competed at the highest level and showed he deserves to be here." The coach's remarks frame Bellingham's challenge: perform, or risk being sidelined.
Foden's central role and Rogers' rise
Phil Foden's recall after a standout club season introduces further intrigue. Tuchel envisions Foden in a central, box-to-box role-"a mix between a number nine and a 10," he said-citing the Manchester City player's knack for scoring and assisting in high-pressure zones. "He should have a central role," Tuchel added, signaling a tactical shift away from deploying Foden on the wing.
Meanwhile, Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers, a consistent presence under Tuchel, retains his spot despite a quieter outing in Latvia. His inclusion highlights the coach's preference for form and adaptability over reputation.
Wharton's long-awaited chance
Adam Wharton, Crystal Palace's standout midfielder, may finally earn meaningful senior minutes after a 28-minute cameo in June 2024. Injuries and prior omissions had stalled his progress, but Tuchel's latest squad offers a potential breakthrough.
Notable absences and fading hopes
The squad omits several high-profile names. Trent Alexander-Arnold's exclusion-compounded by his contentious Champions League return to Anfield-further dims his World Cup prospects. Jack Grealish, though performing creditably at Everton, lacks the "sparkle" to displace England's established wide options, per Tuchel's assessment.
Ollie Watkins (injury) and Marcus Rashford (central potential but untested there for England) were also overlooked. Danny Welbeck's seven-year international hiatus remains unbroken, despite his resurgent form at Brighton-a decision Tuchel framed as necessary to prioritize "ready-made alternatives" for Harry Kane.
Scott's surprise inclusion, Lewis-Skelly's warning
Bournemouth's Alex Scott earned a shock call-up, while Arsenal's Myles Lewis-Skelly-limited to 463 minutes this season-was dropped. Tuchel's prior criticism of Lewis-Skelly's game time now carries tangible consequences, serving as a caution to the 19-year-old's World Cup ambitions.
Bellingham's World Cup audition begins
With five goal contributions for England in 2024-25, Bellingham's pedigree is undeniable. Yet Tuchel's emphasis on competition suggests the midfielder must reassert his dominance. "The key strength of him from number 10 is to find number nine positions," Tuchel said. "He has a hunger to score-we see that for Real Madrid, and hopefully for us."
The dead-rubber qualifiers thus become a proving ground. As Tuchel put it: "England cannot contemplate winning the World Cup without him"-but only if Bellingham seizes the moment.
