Archive · 8 Nov 2025
Tuchel Praises Bellingham's Competitive Edge, Plans New Role for Foden
England's soccer coach, Thomas Tuchel, is talking about two important players, Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden.
Tuchel said that Jude Bellingham's competitive spirit is actually a good thing for the team, even though it's very intense.
He wants Bellingham to keep playing with that fire.
Tuchel also mentioned that Bellingham's absence from a previous game wasn't due to any problems.
For Phil Foden, Tuchel has a new idea.
Instead of playing Foden on the side, he wants to play him more in the middle, right behind the main striker, Harry Kane.
Tuchel thinks this central spot will be even better for Foden, especially after seeing him play well in a similar role for his club team.
Both players have been brought back into the squad for upcoming World Cup qualifying games.
England manager Thomas Tuchel believes Jude Bellingham's competitive edge is a positive attribute for the team.
Tuchel dismissed rumors of tension with Bellingham and expressed excitement for his return to the squad.
Phil Foden has been recalled and is intended to play in a more central attacking role behind Harry Kane.
Tuchel was influenced by Foden's recent performances playing centrally for his club.
Bellingham and Foden are included in the squad for upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Serbia and Albania.
- Who
- England manager Thomas Tuchel
- What
- Stated that Jude Bellingham's competitive edge is beneficial for the team and announced plans to play Phil Foden in a more central attacking role.
- When
- Friday, ahead of World Cup qualifiers
- Where
- United Kingdom (UK)
- Why
- To address past comments about Bellingham, praise his competitiveness, and explain tactical plans for Foden.
Embrace Bellingham's Edge
Past Concerns Over Behavior
Bellingham's On-Field Intensity
Embrace Bellingham's Edge
England manager Thomas Tuchel believes Jude Bellingham's fiery competitiveness and on-field intensity are crucial assets for the team and should be encouraged.
Past Concerns Over Behavior
Tuchel previously apologized for remarking that Bellingham's on-field behavior was 'repulsive,' though he now insists the matter is resolved and Bellingham's edge is a 'very good thing'.
- Manager
- Thomas Tuchel
- Player Recalled
- Jude Bellingham
- Player Recalled
- Phil Foden
- Upcoming Matches
- World Cup qualifiers vs. Serbia and Albania
- Bellingham's Previous Absence
- Squad for match against Latvia
- Foden's Intended Role
- Central attacking role, behind Harry Kane
Sources
2026 World Cup qualifiers: Thomas Tuchel recalls Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden to national squad. Check full team list here
Tuchel Recalls Bellingham, Foden For England's Qualifiers Against Serbia, Albania; No Room For TAA
Thomas Tuchel says door still open for players to England's World Cup squad