Bellingham is a "golden opportunity" for Tuchel

09/10/2025 14:50:00 PANDATV

Jude Bellingham was not selected for the England team. Nevertheless, this should be viewed not as a setback but as a chance for Thomas Tuchel to test new ideas, diversify the squad, and get ready for the 2026 World Cup.

1. The choice to leave Bellingham out helps Tuchel expand tactical flexibility and lessen dependence on a single star player. He regards this as a moment to validate his preferred 4-2-3-1 formation. During the 5-0 win over Serbia in September, Morgan Rogers excelled in the number 10 position, showcasing smart ball handling and excellent fitness. He not only served as a temporary replacement for Bellingham but also injected fresh energy and is expected to start again when England faces Wales.

Tuchel had planned to pair Bellingham with Harry Kane in a 4-4-2 formation, but now he has the chance to test Elliot Anderson, who stood out against Andorra and Serbia, alongside Declan Rice in midfield. This pairing enhances defensive strength while keeping fluidity in attacking transitions.

Tuchel has stressed: "Football is a collective sport; it cannot rely on one individual." The stats support him: in 42 matches featuring Bellingham, England won 26; without him, the win rate is even better with 13 wins, 6 draws, and only 1 loss. This time, aiming to maintain unity and keep the successful lineup from September, he only replaced Noni Madueke with Bukayo Saka. For Tuchel, leaving Bellingham out is not a risk but a strategic step to develop 4-2-3-1 and 4-4-2 variants for the 2026 World Cup.

2. Bellingham’s absence creates a chance for younger players to establish themselves. Tuchel did not recall familiar stars like Phil Foden or Jack Grealish but retained the group from September with the additions of Jarell Quansah and Ruben Loftus-Cheek.

The friendly against Wales offers Tuchel a chance to experiment with the England squad

In midfield, Morgan Gibbs-White and Loftus-Cheek will be tested as Bellingham’s replacements. Gibbs-White offers sharp passing skills, while Loftus-Cheek provides strength and relentless pressing. This combination gives Tuchel more flexible options in ball progression. Omitting Foden, whom Pep Guardiola praised as the best central player, shows Tuchel prioritizes current form and team spirit over reputation.

Additionally, Tuchel continues to trust Cole Palmer, who is currently injured but seen as a future option. Palmer scored in the EURO 2024 final and promises to boost competition in attack. All these moves clearly show that temporarily sidelining Bellingham has created a motivational boost, encouraging young players to prove themselves and increasing the squad’s depth.

Tuchel admitted the September camp was "the best since he took charge," thanks to a positive atmosphere and strong focus. He said: "We want to build a team that fights for each other, not one revolving around a single individual."

3. There are no signs of conflict between Tuchel and Bellingham. Although Tuchel once criticized him as "too hot-headed," he apologized and clarified it was a language issue. However, experts like Gary Neville see Bellingham’s exclusion as a "clear message": Tuchel is ready to make tough decisions, unlike previous England managers who tended to favor star players.

This also gives Bellingham more time to recover. After a busy schedule and a shoulder injury, he needs rest to regain form at Real Madrid. Anthony Gordon said: "Jude has a strong personality, but resting now benefits both him and the team." While Kylian Mbappé continues training with France despite minor pain, Tuchel opts for a more cautious approach, allowing his player full recovery.

In the long term, leaving Bellingham out helps Tuchel assess the pressure tolerance of new players and test talents like Rogers, Gibbs-White, and Anderson in competitive settings. This strategic move aims to build collective resilience in the England team, preparing a diverse, united squad for the 2026 World Cup that does not rely on any single individual.

Comment (0)