Despite being named England’s Player of the Year, Jude Bellingham was surprisingly dropped from the national squad, with manager Thomas Tuchel citing injury and game time, but suggesting deeper issues concerning squad dynamics and the need to test alternatives for the upcoming World Cup.
England manager Thomas Tuchel has explained Jude Bellingham’s surprise omission from the latest England squad, just two days after the midfielder was named England’s Player of the Year for 2024–25.
Tuchel cited Bellingham’s limited game time at Real Madrid following shoulder surgery, noting he has started only one match this season. “Do I believe we are stronger with Jude? Yes,” Tuchel said. “But it can never be the solution to depend on one player in football.”
Tuchel retained most of the squad that defeated Serbia 5–0 in September, saying the “team spirit” from that camp was key. His decision, however, has fueled speculation of deeper issues, particularly after he previously criticised Bellingham’s temperament.
“There’s no problem between me and Jude,” Tuchel insisted. Former England defender Gary Neville described the omission as “a message” to Bellingham, urging him to respond through his performances at Real Madrid.