Tuchel makes demand from Real Madrid midfielder at World Cup

England manager Thomas Tuchel has warned that Jude Bellingham faces a battle to secure a regular starting place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting competition for places in his squad remains fierce. 

Despite being regarded as one of England’s key players, Tuchel said he currently has “14 or 15 potential starters” available, making selection decisions increasingly difficult ahead of the tournament.

Bellingham, who starred for England at Euro 2024 and rarely left the pitch during that campaign, has seen his role change since Tuchel took charge in January 2025. 

The Real Madrid midfielder has started only four matches under the German coach, while several appearances have come from the bench as Tuchel has experimented with different options in midfield and attack.

One player to benefit from the manager’s trust has been Morgan Rogers. The Aston Villa star has featured in 12 of Tuchel’s 13 matches in charge and played in all eight of England’s World Cup qualifying fixtures. 

His consistent performances have strengthened competition within the squad and provided Tuchel with additional tactical flexibility.

Bellingham’s availability has also been affected by injuries over the past year.

A shoulder problem ruled him out of two qualifiers last September, while a persistent hamstring issue forced him to miss England’s friendly matches in March. 

The midfielder also endured frustration at club level after injury disrupted a crucial stage of Real Madrid’s domestic and European campaigns.

The relationship between Tuchel and Bellingham has occasionally attracted attention. 

The England boss previously criticized the midfielder’s behaviour during a defeat to Senegal before later apologizing, and he also questioned Bellingham’s reaction to being substituted in a World Cup qualifier against Albania. 

However, Tuchel now believes the 22-year-old is showing positive signs and appears refreshed heading into the tournament.

Those encouraging signs were evident during England’s recent 1-0 victory over New Zealand in Tampa, where Bellingham impressed after coming on at half-time and later captained the side. 

Tuchel praised his energy, determination, and leadership, describing the midfielder as being in a “sweet spot” physically and mentally as England prepare for their World Cup campaign.