Tuchel’s Toughest World Cup Call Could Involve Jude Bellingham
For much of the last three years, Jude Bellingham has appeared untouchable.
Jude Bellingham enters the World Cup under pressure as Morgan Rogers challenges for England's No.10 role.
From his emergence at Borussia Dortmund to his sensational arrival at Real Madrid, the midfielder seemed destined to become the face of England's next generation. Yet as the 2026 World Cup approaches, the player expected to lead England into the tournament is suddenly facing a battle simply to make the starting XI.
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The Career-Defining High Point
The image that best captures Bellingham's rise remains his dramatic equaliser against Slovakia at Euro 2024.
With England trailing deep into stoppage time, the midfielder produced a stunning bicycle kick before celebrating with the now-famous declaration: "Who else?!"
It was the perfect representation of a player who had repeatedly delivered in decisive moments.
Before that, he had already impressed at the 2022 World Cup, inspired Borussia Dortmund's title challenge, and established himself among football's elite talents.
Conquering Madrid
Real Madrid's victory in the race for Bellingham's signature proved transformative.
The midfielder adapted instantly to life at the Bernabeu, thriving in a team adjusting to the departure of Karim Benzema. His remarkable start included 10 goals in his first 10 appearances and historic achievements in La Liga, the Champions League and El Clasico.
His influence stretched throughout the season as Madrid secured a double, powered in part by Bellingham's return of 23 goals and 13 assists.
Those performances earned him La Liga Player of the Season and elevated expectations to extraordinary levels.
Why the Momentum Slowed
Since then, circumstances have changed.
A troublesome shoulder injury lingered before eventually requiring surgery. Meanwhile, Madrid's changing structure and the arrival of Kylian Mbappe altered Bellingham's responsibilities within the team.
The attacking freedom that defined his first campaign became less evident. His contribution dropped to nine goals and six assists in all competitions, while his influence in advanced areas diminished.
The decline has also been reflected in his England performances.
Despite remaining one of the country's biggest footballing stars, Bellingham has not scored for England since October 10, 2024, and has struggled to consistently reproduce his best form on the international stage.
Tuchel's Open Competition Policy
Thomas Tuchel has made it clear since taking charge that reputations alone will not determine selection.
The England manager has encouraged direct competition for places, and that philosophy has placed Bellingham under genuine pressure.
While injuries kept the Madrid midfielder out of several camps, Morgan Rogers used those opportunities to strengthen his credentials.
The Aston Villa playmaker has impressed as a creative force and offers a more natural fit in the attacking midfield role behind Harry Kane.
"Rather than finding the best players a position to just have them on the field, it's maybe better to put everyone in their best position and have a competition. At the moment, the competition is between the two of them," the German said in November of the battle between Rogers and Bellingham to start behind Harry Kane.
With Rogers continuing to build momentum, Tuchel now faces a difficult selection call ahead of the Croatia match.
The Debate Around Bellingham's Character
Few England players generate as much discussion as Bellingham.
His passion and intensity have often been praised, but they have also attracted criticism. A visible reaction during England's loss to Senegal and later frustrations after being substituted against Albania became major talking points.
Tuchel has consistently argued that Bellingham's competitive edge can be a strength when properly managed.
"I think he brings an edge, which we welcome and which is needed if we want to achieve big things," he said. "It needs to be channelled. The edge needs to be channelled toward the opponent, towards our goal and not to intimidate team-mates, or to be over aggressive to team-mates or referees."
The manager also generated headlines when discussing public perceptions of the midfielder.
"I see that it can create mixed emotions. I see this with my parents, with my mum that she sometimes cannot see the nice and well-educated and well-behaved guy that I see… If he smiles, he wins everyone, but sometimes you see the rage, the hunger and the fire, and it comes out in a way that can be a bit repulsive. For example, for my mother, when she sits in front of the TV, I see that, but in general we are very happy to have him, he's a special boy."
Support Amid Criticism
Bellingham's critics have not gone unchallenged.
Former England forward Ian Wright publicly defended the midfielder and questioned the nature of some criticism directed at him.
“I don't think they're ready for a black superstar who can move like Jude is moving. They can't touch him," Wright said of sections of the English media and fanbase.
He added:
"They all love N'Golo Kante. He's a humble Black man, gets on with what he's doing. Someone like Jude frightens these people because of his capability and the inspiration he can give. Because if you are outspoken, Black, and playing to that level and not caring, that frightens certain people. It's a tiring exercise to speak about."
The Dallas Dilemma
England's opening World Cup fixture presents Tuchel with one of his biggest decisions yet.
Does he choose Bellingham, a player capable of producing extraordinary moments on the grandest stage, or does he reward the form and consistency shown by Rogers?
The debate has become one of the defining storylines heading into the tournament.
Bellingham will wear England's No.10 shirt, but that does not guarantee he will occupy the No.10 role against Croatia. Tuchel's attempts to challenge and motivate the midfielder have only intensified scrutiny around the situation.
One thing appears certain: Bellingham will remain central to England's World Cup story. Whether that comes through decisive performances or emotional flashpoints may ultimately shape the tournament journey of the Three Lions.
