England manager Thomas Tuchel says Jude Bellingham is not guaranteed a place in his starting line-up for the World Cup, insisting competition for places is stronger than ever within his squad.The Real Madrid midfielder remains one of Englands key players, but Tuchel believes he has up to 15 footballers capable of starting matches as the tournament approaches.Asked whether Bellingham faces a battle to secure a regular starting role, Tuchel replied: Yes, he does.He is one of the starters and he knows that, but we have 14 or 15 players who could all start.That can always change, but right now we have a lot of genuine options and Jude is one of them.Table of ContentsBellinghams role changed under TuchelTuchel pleased with Bellingham responseBellinghams role changed under TuchelBellingham was a central figure during Englands run to the Euro 2024 final, starting every match and missing only 29 minutes throughout the tournament.Since Tuchel took charge in January 2025, however, the 22-year-old has not been as automatic a selection.He has started only four matches under the German and made three further appearances from the bench.In contrast, Aston Villa midfielder Morgan Rogers has become a regular presence, featuring in 12 of Tuchels 13 games in charge and appearing in all eight World Cup qualifiers.Bellinghams opportunities have also been affected by injury setbacks. A shoulder problem ruled him out of two qualifiers last September, while a hamstring issue forced him to miss Englands March friendlies.Tuchel pleased with Bellingham response3EMEFK9 Tampa, USA. 06th June, 2026. England v New Zealand Pre World Cup Friendly Raymond James Stadium Tampa Florida USA. England Manager Thomas Tuchel. Picture Credit: Mark Pain/Alamy Live NewsThe relationship between Tuchel and Bellingham has attracted attention over the past year.Following Englands defeat by Senegal last summer, Tuchel criticised the midfielders behaviour on the pitch before later apologising for the remarks. He also questioned Bellinghams reaction after being substituted in a qualifier against Albania.Despite that, Tuchel was encouraged by the midfielders display after coming on in Englands 1-0 friendly victory over New Zealand.Bellingham replaced a team-mate at half-time and later wore the captains armband as England completed another step in their World Cup preparations.You can see Judes determination and intensity straight away, Tuchel said.That is one of his biggest strengths.You can also see that he has come back from injury feeling refreshed and full of energy. He is happy to be playing again.He missed an important period of the season, both for Real Madrid and for himself, which was unfortunate.But now he looks to be in a really good place. He has returned fresh, he wants to play and he is in excellent condition. Topics England National Football Team Jude Bellingham Thomas Tuchel Add us as a preferred source on Google If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read 48 teams, 12 groups and an expanded knockout stage: How World Cup 2026 will work Tom Rostance 3rd June, 2026 Kane claims heat not a factor as England aim for World Cup glory Mitch Fretton 7th June, 2026 Tuchel slams freestyle England: The first half we were out of positions Tom Rostance 7th June, 2026 England 1-0 New Zealand: Report, result, goals from World Cup 2026 friendly as Harry Kane settles brilliant workout in international friendly Ben Miller 7th June, 2026 England vs New Zealand live: World Cup 2026 friendly confirmed teams and full line ups as Harry Kane and Ollie Watkins start, TV channel, live online stream and stats Ben Miller 6th June, 2026 FIFA World Cup 2026: Full England fixtures, results, schedule, confirmed squad, next match, kick off times Ben Miller 6th June, 2026
