🔗 Share this article

Thomas Tuchel's choice to ignore Jude Bellingham's desire to be included in his most recent England squad is proof the head coach envisions a wider picture stretching beyond the Real Madrid phenomenon.

The young midfielder, who notoriously mouthed "who else?" when scoring a spectacular stoppage-time overhead kick as England defeated Slovakia in the last 16 of Euro 2024, now understands there are other options Tuchel will evaluate.

It is nonsensical to propose Bellingham's omission is evidence Tuchel regards him as dispensable, but it shows the German will not be in thrall to any player, or yield to the demands of his biggest names as his forerunners - most notably Sven-Goran Eriksson - did.

The era of guaranteed selections for the top players by impressionable managers and coaches are finished under Tuchel. Past achievements amount to nothing. Performances do.

Medical Factors

His ruling is also based on solid common sense, with Bellingham starting only one game for Real Madrid, the 5-2 loss to Atletico Madrid, after arm operation.

Bellingham has also appeared three times off the bench, but this was insufficient for Tuchel to acknowledge his wish to be in the group who play Wales in a Wembley exhibition match before travelling to Latvia for a World Cup qualifier.

Past Headlines

Tuchel's relationship with Bellingham has already generated media attention, particularly when he confessed after the 3-1 loss to Senegal at the City Ground in June that his mother sometimes viewed the player's on-field behaviour as "repulsive".

He later expressed regret, insisting he used the word "unintentionally" and has been quick to commend the midfielder.

Tuchel, however, has been in no hurry to return Bellingham to the squad, despite a status in recent years which has had him regarded as the fulcrum of England's team.

Coach's Perspective

The German said Bellingham had "wanted to be called up" and that "he remains a special player, and for special players there can always be exceptions."

But Tuchel is resolved England's success will not be determined by whether Bellingham is present or not, especially with next summer's World Cup in mind.

"Do we become a better team with Jude? Yes," commented Tuchel. "But I told you before, what do we do if Jude is unfit before the World Cup? Do we just cancel?"

The notion of England going to the World Cup without a fit Bellingham is unthinkable, but Tuchel has established a precedent by making it clear not every strategy he formulates will be reliant on him being in the team.

Squad Depth

Tuchel, importantly, is working and selecting from a position of strength after the impressive 5-0 win away to Serbia in England's last World Cup qualifier.

He has demonstrated he will acknowledge loyalty after others performed well so much in Belgrade, proving that no-one, no matter who they are, will simply return automatically into his squad, regardless of their reputation.

Tuchel warned "there are definitely no guarantees" for any player - and his Bellingham decision confirms it.

His remarks that Bellingham desired to be in the squad, but was then not selected, were informative in this situation.

Squad Spirit

Bellingham may be displeased following his conversation with Tuchel, but the head coach has different priorities - and players - to focus on.

Tuchel was extremely impressed with the atmosphere in England's squad, which he described was the best since he was hired, stating to the most impressive display since he took over when Serbia were demolished in Belgrade.

He has no desire to disturb that spirit, even if that means Bellingham having to be patient.

Emerging Talents

Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson impressed against Serbia and in the earlier win against Andorra at Villa Park, while Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers excelled in the number 10 role that might have been filled by Bellingham had he been available in Belgrade.

Interestingly, Arsenal's Bukayo Saka has only recently returned from a hamstring problem, but is recalled to occupy the opening left by injury to his Arsenal team-mate Noni Madueke.

Other Omissions

The other big talking point in Tuchel's squad was his decision not to include Manchester City's Phil Foden - back to his best after an indifferent season last term - and Everton forward Jack Grealish, who has been outstanding since signing on loan from Manchester City.

Foden has created 18 chances and scored five goals in all competitions this season, while Grealish has created the most opportunities in the Premier League this season with 17, resulting in four assists.

Like Bellingham, there is no instant route back for the pair despite a clamour for their selection - once again showing Tuchel was highly satisfied with what he saw at the last international camp.

World Cup Preparation

He maintained all camps leading up the World Cup, with England needing only five points to assure qualification, would be about developing competition and molding his squad as well as outcomes.

The most recent England squad shows Tuchel will be faithful to his word.