England boss Thomas Tuchel made headlines after leaving ‘England’s Player of the Year’ out of his latest squad.
‘England’s Player of the Year’ left out of national squad
On Wednesday of last week, Jude Bellingham was given the England’s men’s Player of the Year award for 2024-25. But, he was left out two days later. Thomas Tuchel gave a clear reason, that since having surgery on his shoulder, Bellingham has not played much for Real Madrid.
The midfielder has only started one fixture and he is yet to play a full game. But Tuchel’s decision is about getting the players rhythm together ahead of the World Cup as well.
The head coach of England has been clear that he would like to have chemistry and continuity to the squad.. He called-up most of the squad that thrashed Serbia 5-0 in September. As per the boss that group was his best until now.
Thomas Tuchel contacted Jude Bellingham over his omission. "We had a phone call. Not an awkward conversation. But it's not nice (to tell someone they are not in the squad." Tuchel emphasised "there is no problem" between the pair and the decision is solely fitness-related.… pic.twitter.com/ftHiO5hk2G
— Henry Winter (@henrywinter) October 3, 2025
Balancing talent with team rhythm
Still, dropping a player like Bellingham is a huge call. The midfielder is know to take control of a game and change the results. There are few in world football who can match his influence. Still, it seems that Tuchel is clearly showing that club form and physical shape are as important as reputation.
Saka continues to be selected, despite not having played 90 minutes for Arsenal since August, showing this is Tuchel selecting him simply because he trusts him and he fits his tactical approach. For Bellingham, this break gives him a mini-preseason to work back to his best so that he can actually help club and country when the time comes.
Author’s Opinion:
Tuchel seems ruthless, but it is calculated. It is not mainly about punishing the player, but about preparing him. Bellingham may not have actually felt the pain right away, and if re-igniting his form for Madrid helps England from now until the World Cup, Tuchel may be justified in risking the decision.
