Before the rematch against Albania, Jude Bellingham had just returned to the England team not long after a long injury break. His "number 10" position was quite effectively taken up by Morgan Rogers. It was not until the rematch against Albania that the Real Madrid midfielder was returned to the starting lineup of Thomas Tuchel. However, Bellingham's performance has not been as expected.
After Harry Kane's double in the 82nd minute, Bellingham was substituted. The 22-year-old star was replaced by Rogers. When leaving the field, Bellingham still shook hands with Tuchel but his expression on the face clearly showed his dissatisfaction, even a bit dissatisfaction.
Although it was just a moment, Bellingham's attitude caught the attention of reporters present at the Air Albania stadium. After the match, Thomas Tuchel was asked a lot about the strategy for the 2026 World Cup, in addition to questions about Bellingham, about the midfielder's attitude after being substituted.
"Jude Bellingham doesn't like that, obviously, no one likes to be substituted. However, Rogers doesn't like to be left out, he doesn't deserve that situation.
However, this is my decision. Bellingham received a yellow card. Before the second goal, the coaching staff agreed to take Bellingham off the field and this view has not changed until we made a substitution" - Thomas Tuchel shared with ITV.
That was an interview with ITV, and right at the post-match press conference, Tuchel also explained Bellingham's attitude when he was substituted. The German coach said that the whole team always aims for the best of the team, and will handle any negative situation as Bellingham reacted after being substituted.
"The coaching staff always knows that the players are extremely determined, so every substitution decision is an extremely difficult choice. Even deciding to do this before the match is not easy" - Tuchel shared.
Bellingham's reaction is understandable because he had waited a long time before he could return to the national team and get a starting position. When Real's midfielder was out after shoulder surgery, Morgan Rogers ( Aston Villa) took over Bellingham's "number 10" position and played very impressively.
Therefore, when he returns, Bellingham really wants to make his mark. However, in the most recent victory against Albania, he did not score or assist, so he cannot be considered outstanding. Bellingham wants to play more to prove himself but he does not seem to have the best physical foundation.
As for Thomas Tuchel, withdrawing Bellingham in the final minutes is considered a great respect for this star. If he had not wanted to create an opportunity for his student, Tuchel could have taken Bellingham out at the beginning or middle of the second half. Bellingham should understand this and accept it because he himself is not in the best physical condition.
