England have 15 potential starters, Bellingham must compete — Tuchel

England manager Thomas Tuchel has said Jude Bellingham will need to compete for a place in the starting lineup at the World Cup, stressing that the national team now boasts significant depth with several players capable of starting matches.

Bellingham, who played a prominent role for England at Euro 2024, has had a less consistent starting role since Tuchel took over in January 2025. The Real Madrid midfielder has started four games under the German coach and made three substitute appearances, with injuries and fitness concerns affecting his involvement during parts of the season.

While reaffirming Bellingham’s importance to the squad, Tuchel said no player is assured of a place in the team.

“Yes, he has a fight on his hands,” Tuchel said when asked about the midfielder’s starting prospects. “He is one of the starters, he knows he is one of the starters, but we have 14 or 15 potential starters.”

Tuchel has frequently relied on Morgan Rogers, who has emerged as one of England’s most dependable performers since the manager’s appointment. Rogers has appeared in 12 of England’s 13 matches under Tuchel and featured in all eight of the team’s World Cup qualifying fixtures.

Despite Rogers’ consistency, Tuchel maintained that places remain open as England continue preparations for the tournament. Competition is expected to increase, particularly in midfield and attacking positions, where England possess considerable depth.

Bellingham’s recent performances have nonetheless provided encouragement. Following injury setbacks earlier in the year, Tuchel praised the midfielder’s condition, describing him as having returned to a “sweet spot” both physically and mentally. The England coach also highlighted Bellingham’s “decisiveness and bite” after his display in the recent World Cup warm-up victory over New Zealand, during which he briefly captained the side after coming on at half-time.

Tuchel’s remarks reflect the growing competition within the England squad as the World Cup approaches. Declan Rice is also expected to play a central role and serve as vice-captain, adding further quality to a highly competitive midfield unit.

With England nearing the start of the tournament, Tuchel has made it clear that established reputations will not guarantee selection, and every player will have to earn their place in a squad packed with talent and options.