Tuchel Warns Bellingham: Earn Your England Spot Before the World Cup

England manager Thomas Tuchel has told Jude Bellingham that his reputation alone won’t guarantee a starting role at the 2026 World Cup. Bellingham has started just four matches under Tuchel, while Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers has featured in 12 of 13 games and played every World Cup qualifier. Tuchel says he has “14 or 15 proper starters” in midfield and Bellingham must prove he belongs. The Real Madrid midfielder missed two qualifiers with a shoulder injury and sat out friendlies due to a hamstring issue. His relationship with Tuchel has come under scrutiny after public criticism of his on-field reactions. Despite the tension, Tuchel praised Bellingham’s second-half display in England’s win over New Zealand. He believes the 22-year-old is now fit, focused and ready to compete for a starting spot.

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