The stage is set for Jude Bellingham to reclaim his spot as England's midfield maestro in the World Cup opener against Croatia in Dallas on Wednesday. Two years on from that show-stopping overhead kick against Slovakia at Euro 2024, which catapulted him into 'golden boy' territory, Bellingham finds himself back in the spotlight after a tumultuous period of scrutiny and tension with England head coach Thomas Tuchel.
The No. 10 role behind captain Harry Kane was always going to be a hotly contested battle, especially given the impressive rise of Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers. But make no mistake – Bellingham's presence is still felt. The youngster has been on a rollercoaster ride since his post-Euro 2024 dominance, navigating injuries and controversy that have forced him to prove himself all over again.
The strained relationship with Tuchel has been well-documented, from the German coach's public apology for comments about Bellingham's behaviour to being left out of the squad for a friendly against Wales and a World Cup qualifier against Latvia. The injuries haven't helped – shoulder and hamstring problems have limited him to just nine starts in England's last 20 games.
But reports from the England camp suggest a revitalised focus from Bellingham, who has arrived at the World Cup having learned valuable lessons from his mixed season with Real Madrid. He looks fit, motivated, and more integrated into Tuchel's squad than ever before – an indication of his growing seniority within the team.
Former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson is backing Bellingham to shine: "He looks as fit and focused as he has for a long time," Robinson said. "I'd pick him to start, 100%. Morgan Rogers doesn't deserve to lose his place, but Bellingham is a big-game player – he's got that X-factor others don't."
Jordan Henderson, the mentor who took Bellingham under his wing in 2020, believes the midfielder possesses an invaluable quality that could be the difference-maker for England in their pursuit of a first major men's trophy since 1966. With the opener just around the corner, all eyes will be on Bellingham to deliver and guide England towards a successful campaign.