England manager Thomas Tuchel has warned that Jude Bellingham does not have a guaranteed place in the Three Lions’ starting line-up for the World Cup, insisting competition for places has intensified across the squad.
Bellingham was one of England’s standout performers at Euro 2024, but his role has become less settled since Tuchel took charge in January 2025.
The Real Madrid midfielder has started only four matches under the German coach and made three substitute appearances, with injuries and fitness concerns affecting his availability during parts of the campaign.
Speaking in comments reported by BBC Sport on Monday, Tuchel made it clear that reputation alone would not secure a place in his starting team.
Tuchel said: “Yes, he has a fight on his hands. “He is one of the starters, he knows he is one of the starters, but we have 14 or 15 potential starters.”
The England boss has frequently relied on Morgan Rogers since taking charge, with the midfielder emerging as one of the most consistent performers in the squad.
Rogers has featured in 12 of England’s 13 matches under Tuchel and remains the only player to have appeared in all eight of the team’s World Cup qualifying fixtures.
Despite Rogers’ strong form, Tuchel said the battle for places remains open as England continue preparations for the tournament.
The manager believes depth across midfield and attacking positions is one of the team’s greatest strengths heading into the World Cup. Bellingham’s recent performances have also strengthened his case for a regular starting role.
After overcoming injury setbacks earlier in the year, the midfielder impressed in England’s recent World Cup warm-up victory over New Zealand, where he briefly captained the side after coming on at half-time.
Tuchel praised the 22-year-old’s recent displays, highlighting his energy, sharpness and renewed influence on the pitch.
The England coach said Bellingham had returned to a “sweet spot” physically and mentally and also praised his “decisiveness and bite” during the victory over New Zealand.
Vice-captain Declan Rice is expected to remain a key figure in England’s midfield, further increasing competition for places in one of the strongest areas of the squad.
Tuchel’s latest comments underline the challenge facing England’s established stars as they seek places in a squad where every position remains open to competition ahead of the World Cup.
