The England team sparks controversy by 'ignoring' Bellingham and Foden

Thomas Tuchel shocked many by excluding Bellingham and Foden from the squad, a decision that ignited heated debates about England’s strength for the 2026 World Cup.

Coach Thomas Tuchel recently revealed a 24-player roster for upcoming matches against Wales and Latvia, with several key regulars like Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden, Jack Grealish, and Adam Wharton surprisingly absent. The German manager explained that he wants to give opportunities to current players who have impressed in recent games.

Tuchel emphasized: "They must earn their place through performance. If they are not in the lineup and others continue to perform well like in the last match, why should I make changes?"This statement implies he is willing to maintain the current core until the World Cup, despite the return of top stars.

English football expert Troy Deeney expressed concern over Tuchel’s approach, stating: "It sounds like he’s satisfied with the World Cup squad. He says he’s dropping Jude, then says not exactly, then insists Jude isn’t fully fit. If England goes to the World Cup with this list, we’re in big trouble." Deeney stressed that overlooking key players like Bellingham and Foden could cost England an advantage in the major tournament.

Bellingham, once a mainstay for the Three Lions, has just returned from shoulder surgery and hasn’t played a full 90 minutes. Tuchel considers this a valid reason to leave him out, replacing him with Ruben Loftus-Cheek. However, Deeney strongly criticized: "Choosing Loftus-Cheek over Bellingham based on form is a decision that could ruin a career."

Renowned outlet talkSport believes Jack Grealish and Phil Foden also have reasons to feel disappointed. Grealish has been outstanding at Everton with 4 assists in 6 games, leading the Premier League in chances created and recently winning August’s Player of the Month. Foden continues to start regularly for Manchester City and has Pep Guardiola's assurance: "If Foden keeps playing like this, he will definitely return to the England squad."

Currently, England remains unbeaten in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers with 15 points from 5 matches. While these results reinforce Tuchel’s confidence in the current lineup, excluding many star players raises concerns. Is Tuchel making a strategic move, or will this stubbornness cost the Three Lions at the 2026 World Cup?