No Problem with Bellingham, Foden, or Grealish – Tuchel
Thomas Tuchel’s England squad selection for matches against Wales and Latvia has ignited debate, with Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden, and Jack Grealish left out despite their undeniable talent. In a bold press conference, Tuchel dismissed any rift, insisting there’s “no problem” with the trio. His England squad selection prioritizes continuity and form, building on a 5-0 thrashing of Serbia. As England chase 2026 World Cup qualification, Tuchel’s focus on team cohesion over star power sets the stage for a defining campaign.
The England squad selection reflects Tuchel’s pragmatic vision. With Bukayo Saka’s recall and a stable core, England aim to secure a World Cup spot against Latvia on October 14. Tuchel’s unwavering belief in his process underscores a team ready to evolve into a global force.
Tuchel’s Rationale for Omissions
The England squad selection raised eyebrows by excluding Jude Bellingham. The 22-year-old Real Madrid star, recovering from shoulder surgery, voiced his desire to return via a direct call with Tuchel. “He’s a special player,” Tuchel said, but with only one club start since September, Bellingham lacks full rhythm. “It’s not a punishment,” Tuchel clarified, addressing past controversy over calling Bellingham’s passion “repulsive.” He apologized for the unintended remark, affirming a strong bond.
Phil Foden’s scintillating Manchester City form didn’t secure his spot either. “I see how good Phil is,” Tuchel noted, yet the midfielders who starred in Serbia’s rout took precedence. Jack Grealish, thriving at Everton, also misses out, with Tuchel praising his influence but demanding consistency. “No problem with them,” Tuchel told BBC Sport, emphasizing that the England squad selection doesn’t diminish their value. It’s a tough but strategic call.
Continuity After Serbia’s Triumph
The England squad selection retains the core from the Serbia demolition, with Bukayo Saka replacing the injured Noni Madueke. Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Jarell Quansah hold their spots, edging out Adam Wharton and Tino Livramento. “We had our best camp and performance three weeks ago,” Tuchel said, justifying minimal changes. The 5-0 Serbia win showcased unity, with Elliot Anderson and Morgan Rogers shining in midfield roles typically held by Bellingham or Foden.
Tuchel’s club-like approach fosters cohesion. “There are no guarantees for any player,” he warned, acknowledging talents like Wharton, Curtis Jones, and the injured Cole Palmer. The England squad selection blends Premier League stars like Declan Rice with continental experience from Harry Kane and Marcus Rashford, creating a balanced unit.
Full England Squad Breakdown
Goalkeepers
- Dean Henderson (Crystal Palace)
- Jordan Pickford (Everton)
- James Trafford (Manchester City)
Defenders
- Dan Burn (Newcastle United)
- Marc Guehi (Crystal Palace)
- Reece James (Chelsea)
- Ezri Konsa (Aston Villa)
- Myles Lewis-Skelly (Arsenal)
- Jarell Quansah (Bayer Leverkusen)
- Djed Spence (Tottenham Hotspur)
- John Stones (Manchester City)
Midfielders
- Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest)
- Morgan Gibbs-White (Nottingham Forest)
- Jordan Henderson (Brentford)
- Ruben Loftus-Cheek (AC Milan)
- Declan Rice (Arsenal)
- Morgan Rogers (Aston Villa)
Forwards
- Jarrod Bowen (West Ham United)
- Eberechi Eze (Arsenal)
- Anthony Gordon (Newcastle United)
- Harry Kane (Bayern Munich)
- Marcus Rashford (Barcelona, on loan from Manchester United)
- Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)
- Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)
This England squad selection reflects Tuchel’s trust in the Serbia blueprint. The Wales friendly on October 9 offers a testing ground, while the Latvia qualifier is pivotal for qualification.
Tuchel’s Vision for England
Tuchel’s press conference, dubbed “box office” by reporter Alex Howell, showcased his command. “Are we better with Jude? Yes,” he admitted, but stressed resilience: “What do we do if he’s injured before the World Cup?” The England squad selection prepares for such scenarios, building depth. Foden and Grealish’s omissions highlight Tuchel’s focus on timing and team harmony over individual brilliance.
The Wales match allows experimentation, with Saka’s pace adding dynamism. Latvia’s qualifier demands focus—a win leaves England needing just two points from November’s games against Serbia and Albania. Tuchel’s philosophy mirrors a club side: tight-knit and relentless, with the Serbia win as the benchmark.
Looking Ahead: World Cup Dreams
The England squad selection sets the tone for a crucial phase. Fans expect a cohesive performance against Wales, with Saka’s return boosting the attack. Latvia’s clash tests Tuchel’s strategy, with Kane’s leadership and Rogers’ flair key. Bellingham, Foden, and Grealish remain in Tuchel’s plans, their path back clear through club form.
In conclusion, Tuchel’s England squad selection, excluding Bellingham, Foden, and Grealish, is a bold statement of trust in his core group. With Saka’s recall and a focus on continuity, England are primed for World Cup qualification. The England squad selection isn’t about problems—it’s about building a united, trophy-ready team.
