Tuchel Warns Bellingham Faces Fierce Battle for England Starting Spot at 2026 World Cup
England manager Thomas Tuchel has warned that Jude Bellingham will have to fight for his place in the national team despite returning from injury ahead of next year’s 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The Real Madrid midfielder, 22, has been recalled for England’s final World Cup qualifiers against Serbia and Albania this week after missing October’s fixtures due to shoulder surgery. His absence allowed Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers to impress in the No. 10 role, creating strong competition for places in Tuchel’s side.
“Rather than trying to fit all the best players into one team, it’s better to have everyone in their best position and let competition decide,” Tuchel told reporters on Wednesday. “At the moment, the contest is between the two of them. They’re friends, it’s a healthy rivalry — no need for hostility. They respect each other and fight for the same spot.”
Asked if Bellingham and Rogers could play together, Tuchel said it was possible “in a different structure,” but added that “now is not the moment to change” England’s tactical system.
Bellingham’s return comes weeks after Tuchel apologised for comments earlier in the season suggesting the midfielder’s mother found some of his on-pitch behaviour “repulsive.”
Tuchel has also recalled Phil Foden, who was left out of the last three squads. However, the England coach made it clear that recent results — including a 5-0 victory over Latvia that secured top spot in Group K — show that no player is guaranteed an automatic return to the starting lineup.
“It’s great to have Jude back — the atmosphere has been excellent these past two days,” Tuchel said. “Phil is the same, always positive and committed. But we’ve been performing well without them, and that means they have to raise our standards, not rely on past form. The expectations are clear.”
Under Tuchel, England have won seven of eight matches, including six straight qualifiers without conceding a goal. After facing Serbia on Thursday and travelling to Albania on Sunday, England will play two friendlies in March before Tuchel finalises his World Cup squad.
The former Chelsea and Bayern Munich boss said his focus is on building unity and accountability within the squad.
“We’re trying to create a strong bond — a brotherhood — where everyone feels part of something bigger,” he said. “But there’s also competition. If someone drops their level, someone else will take their place. It’s not a threat — it’s what keeps the energy alive. Everyone wanted to be here, and that’s the best sign of where we are.”