Thomas Tuchel is reportedly set to reintegrate Jude Bellingham into the England squad for the upcoming international matches in November. The Real Madrid star was unexpectedly omitted from the squad in October despite having recovered from shoulder surgery and being fit to play at the club level. It is anticipated that he will participate in the World Cup qualifiers against Serbia and Albania in 2026.

Bellingham’s Previous Absence: Recovery from Injury

Bellingham’s exclusion raised eyebrows, especially after England secured their spots for next summer’s World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Tuchel had decided to stick with the players who performed well in the previous matches in September.

He explained that Bellingham’s absence was due to a lack of playing rhythm following several weeks out due to injury. The 22-year-old midfielder has not played for his national team since June, with Tuchel noting that his mother considers certain behaviors on the field to be ‘repulsive’.

Tuchel’s Criteria for Team Selection

Tuchel addressed questions surrounding Bellingham’s character, emphasizing the importance of team cohesion over simply selecting the most skilled players. He stated: “We do not collect the most talented players; we are trying to build a cohesive team. Teams win trophies, not individuals.”

He further discussed the importance of arriving as a united team, especially as they will take on traditionally strong opponents at the World Cup.

Upcoming Matches: Confirmed World Cup Qualification

England has already qualified for the World Cup, having topped their qualification group after winning all six matches, securing clean sheets throughout. They will face Serbia on November 13, followed by an away match against Albania three days later.