National team coach Thomas Tuchel on Jude Bellingham exclusion
Thomas Tuchel's decision to ignore Jude Bellingham's desire to be included in his most recent England squad demonstrates the head coach sees a broader picture stretching beyond the Real Madrid phenomenon.
The 22-year-old, who famously uttered "who else?" when netting a spectacular stoppage-time overhead kick as England beat Slovakia in the last 16 of Euro 2024, now knows there are alternative choices Tuchel will consider.
It is nonsensical to propose Bellingham's exclusion is proof Tuchel regards him as replaceable, but it shows the German will not be in thrall to any player, or bow to the demands of his star players as his forerunners - most notably Sven-Goran Eriksson - did.
The era of guaranteed selections for the biggest names by impressionable managers and coaches are finished under Tuchel. Reputations count for nothing. Current form do.
Medical Factors
His ruling is also grounded in sound common sense, with Bellingham starting only one game for Real Madrid, the 5-2 loss to Atletico Madrid, after shoulder surgery.
Bellingham has also appeared three times off the bench, but this was insufficient for Tuchel to take note of his wish to be in the group who play Wales in a Wembley exhibition match before journeying to Latvia for a World Cup qualifier.
Previous Controversies
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 perceived the player's on-field conduct as "unpleasant".
He later publicly apologised, insisting he used the word "unintentionally" and has been quick to praise the midfielder.
Tuchel, however, has been in no rush to return Bellingham to the squad, despite a reputation in recent years which has had him viewed as the fulcrum of England's team.
Coach's Perspective
The German said Bellingham had "wanted to be called up" and that "he is a special player, and for special players there can always be special rules."
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.
"Are we a better team with Jude? Yes," commented Tuchel. "But I told you before, what do we do if Jude is injured before the World Cup? Do we just withdraw?"
The notion of England going to the World Cup without a fit Bellingham is inconceivable, but Tuchel has established a precedent by making it clear not every strategy he devises will be reliant on him being in the team.
Squad Depth
Tuchel, importantly, is working and choosing from a position of strength after the impressive 5-0 win away to Serbia in England's last World Cup qualifier.
He has shown he will reward loyalty after others impressed so much in Belgrade, demonstrating that no-one, no matter who they are, will simply walk back into his squad, regardless of their reputation.
Tuchel cautioned "there are absolutely no guarantees" for any player - and his Bellingham decision validates it.
His remarks that Bellingham wanted to be in the squad, but was then not selected, were revealing in this situation.
Team Chemistry
Bellingham may be displeased following his discussion with Tuchel, but the head coach has other matters - and players - to concentrate on.
Tuchel was hugely impressed with the spirit in England's squad, which he said was the best since he was hired, stating to the finest display since he assumed control when Serbia were overwhelmed in Belgrade.
He has no desire to disrupt that spirit, even if that means Bellingham having to be patient.
Rising Players
Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson performed well against Serbia and in the earlier win against Andorra at Villa Park, while Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers shone in the number 10 role that might have been filled by Bellingham had he been available in Belgrade.
Notably, Arsenal's Bukayo Saka has only recently returned from a hamstring problem, but is selected to occupy the vacancy left by injury to his Gunners' 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 - returning to top form after an indifferent season last term - and Everton forward Jack Grealish, who has been exceptional since signing on loan from Manchester City.
Foden has created 18 chances and netted five goals in all competitions this season, while Grealish has produced the most opportunities in the Premier League this season with 17, leading to four assists.
Like Bellingham, there is no instant route back for the pair despite a demand for their selection - once again demonstrating Tuchel was very satisfied with what he saw at the last international camp.
Tournament Planning
He maintained all camps leading up the World Cup, with England requiring only five points to assure qualification, would be about building competition and molding his squad as well as outcomes.
The latest England squad shows Tuchel will be true to his word.
