England head coach Thomas Tuchel says Jude Bellingham will need to fight for his place in the starting XI ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Tuchel described Bellingham as “one of 14 or 15 potential starters” as competition for places intensifies in the England squad. The Real Madrid midfielder featured in only four of the World Cup qualifiers, with Morgan Rogers preferred in the number 10 role throughout the campaign, being the only player to appear in all eight matches.
Speaking about Bellingham’s situation, Tuchel said: “Yes, he has a fight on his hands. He is one of the starters, he knows that, but we have 14 or 15 potential starters. These roles can always change.”
Bellingham was given 45 minutes in the recent 1-0 friendly win over New Zealand, where he and Rogers both played in the same attacking role. Tuchel admitted he was impressed with the 22-year-old’s attitude and form in camp.
“He looks good in training. He is in a sweet spot after his break and injury, with real hunger to be back on the pitch. You can see he is enjoying it,” Tuchel said.
The England boss also remained guarded on whether Bellingham is part of his leadership group, a system first introduced under former manager Sir Gareth Southgate and continued with assistant Anthony Barry.
Bellingham did, however, wear the captain’s armband for the second half against New Zealand, which Tuchel explained was simply due to his seniority on the pitch at that moment.
Looking ahead to the World Cup opener against Croatia on 17 June, Tuchel outlined a clear squad structure: a core of starters, a group pushing for key roles, and players who bring energy from the bench.
