Bellingham Must Earn World Cup Spot, Says Tuchel

England manager Thomas Tuchel has warned that Jude Bellingham faces a battle to secure a place in his starting line-up for the World Cup, insisting no player is guaranteed selection in a squad packed with competition.

Bellingham was one of England’s standout performers at Euro 2024, but his role has been less settled since Tuchel took charge in January 2025.

Injuries and fitness concerns have limited the midfielder’s involvement, with the Real Madrid star starting four matches and making three substitute appearances under the German coach.

Speaking about Bellingham’s prospects, Tuchel made it clear that reputation alone would not be enough to secure a starting berth.

“Yes, he has a fight on his hands,” Tuchel said when asked about the midfielder’s starting prospects.

“He is one of the starters, he knows he is one of the starters, but we have 14 or 15 potential starters.”

The England boss has frequently relied on Morgan Rogers during the qualifying campaign, with the midfielder emerging as one of the most dependable figures in the squad.

Rogers has featured in 12 of Tuchel’s 13 matches in charge and remains the only player to have appeared in all eight of England’s World Cup qualifiers.

Despite Rogers’ consistency, Tuchel stressed that places remain up for grabs as England continues preparations for the tournament.

Bellingham’s recent displays have strengthened his case. After recovering from injury setbacks earlier in the year, the 22-year-old has impressed with his energy and influence. Tuchel recently described him as being back in a “sweet spot” both physically and mentally.

The England manager also praised Bellingham’s “decisiveness and bite” following a strong cameo in the recent World Cup warm-up victory over New Zealand, a match in which he briefly captained the side after coming on at half-time.

Competition in midfield is expected to be fierce, with Declan Rice still regarded as a key figure and likely vice-captain heading into the tournament.