Jude Bellingham Under Pressure? 3 Reasons His World Cup Spot is at Risk

England National Football Team manager Thomas Tuchel is ready to think ahead of Jude Bellingham due to his poor form in recent times. The gaffer is prepared to exercise other viable options for the World Cup 2026 campaign.

The Englishman had a rough start this season for Los Blancos. In 18 matches across all competitions, the 22-year-old has only seven goal/assist contributions, which is significantly lower than his first two seasons at the club.

Compared to the Real Madrid star, other English midfielders have significantly better contributions for their team. While Bellingham's spot in the English National Team has been untouchable so far, looking at the numbers, Tuchel is now exploring other options for his first team choice.

The Englishman's recent injury certainly hasn't helped his case. After just 10 minutes into the match against Rayo Vallecano last week, manager Alvaro Arbeloa had to find a midfield replacement due to the unfortunate Jude Bellingham injury that saw the Englishman leave the pitch in tears.

Why Jude Bellingham's World Cup Spot is at Risk

Poor Form

After joining Real Madrid back in 2023, Bellingham was quick to show the fans why the Spanish club spent a fortune to acquire the services of the Englishman. In his first season, the midfielder had 25 goal/assist contributions in 28 matches across all competitions. His form carried into the next season, where the number 5 of Real Madrid maintained an 11.50 xG throughout the season.

However, since then, his form has dipped significantly. In 18 appearances across all competitions this season, the 22-year-old has only managed to create three big chances so far. As of now, he is maintaining a poor 1.67 xA and an xG of 5.35. The differences in the stats speak volumes for Tuchel's decision.

Sources suggest that Thomas Tuchel is considering giving Morgan Rogers priority for the World Cup. The Englishman has been the soul of Aston Villa this season. He has started all 24 games under Unai Emery this campaign. In contrast to Bellingham, Rogers has 12 direct contributions for Aston Villa, as of now. Despite having other options, Unai Emery has not dropped the Englishman once this season from the first team.

Injury

In addition to Bellingham's poor form, his fresh injury will keep him out of action for at least a month. Moreover, there are recovery period that further increases his time away from the pitch.

Real Madrid's hesitation

As of now, Real Madrid are facing major squad concerns. With marquee defenders out with injuries, the first-team midfielders are taking on the defensive roles, while the bench players are featured in the midfield. The last thing Real Madrid wants is to send off a freshly recovered key player for International duty, risking another season without him fully fit.

What's next for Bellingham and Tuchel?

As of now, Jude Bellingham is out of the Real Madrid team, focused fully on his recovery. The Englishman has said that life goes on, speaking about his injury and how long he will be out of action.

The Three Lions have a couple of friendly fixtures ahead of their World Cup matches.

They meet Uruguay on 28th March and Japan on 1st April. Tuchel will surely test the waters with Morgan Rogers and other Jude Bellingham replacements in these two friendly fixtures.