England manager Thomas Tuchel has decided to recall Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham for the World Cup qualifiers against Serbia and Albania. The move comes after the 22-year-old was omitted from the October squad due to fitness concerns following his recovery from shoulder surgery.
Bellingham’s exclusion last month sparked widespread debate, given his influence and consistent performances for both club and country. Tuchel defended the decision at the time, insisting it was based on the player’s physical readiness rather than form or reputation. He maintained that even a fully fit Bellingham might have missed out as he wanted to reward the group that had performed strongly in September’s fixtures.
Tuchel’s initial squad for October reflected a philosophy of continuity and loyalty, with the coach emphasizing team spirit and stability. However, Bellingham’s recent performances for Real Madrid have made his recall inevitable. The midfielder has returned to full fitness, starting in all of Madrid’s last five matches across competitions and scoring three goals, including a standout display in the 2-1 win over Barcelona.
England head into the qualifiers with six wins from six matches, already securing their place at the World Cup finals. They face Serbia at Wembley before traveling to Tirana to meet Albania. With only one more international camp scheduled before the tournament in March, Tuchel’s latest squad selections will play a vital role in shaping his final World Cup lineup.
Bellingham’s return adds further competition in the attacking midfield role, where England boast several talented options such as Eberechi Eze, Morgan Gibbs-White, Morgan Rogers, Cole Palmer, and Phil Foden. Palmer remains sidelined with injury, while Foden was previously overlooked in October.
Tuchel’s decision appears to signal a balance between rewarding form and reintroducing key players ahead of the World Cup. With Bellingham back to his best, the England boss will be hoping the dynamic midfielder can inspire the team’s preparations for next summer’s tournament.
