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Football Insider

Jude Bellingham's Case for the World Cup: Why the Injured Real Madrid Star Must Make England's Squad

Thomas Tuchel has outlined three compelling reasons why Jude Bellingham, currently recovering from an injury at Real Madrid, should be a crucial part of England's 2026 World Cup squad. Despite potential setbacks, Bellingham's reputation and talent place him firmly in contention for the prestigious tournament.

Jude Bellingham's Case for the World Cup: Why the Injured Real Madrid Star Must Make England's Squad

Thomas Tuchel has been given three reasons why Jude Bellingham, who is nursing an injury at Real Madrid, has to make England’s 2026 World Cup squad. The all-action midfielder may be forced to sit out international action during the March round of friendlies, but Lee Sharpe has told GOAL that the talented 22-year-old is one of those that should be picked on reputation alone.Bellingham famously bellowed ‘Who else?’ when netting a stunning overhead kick against Slovakia at the 2024 European Championship that kept England in the hunt for continental glory. He ultimately suffered final heartache at the hands of Spain.Another quest for immortality will be taken in this summer when the Three Lions head to North America and compete for the most prestigious of major honours. The general consensus is that Real Madrid ‘Galactico’ Bellingham has to form part of those plans.He is, however, nursing a hamstring problem at present - with said ailment set to keep him sidelined for several weeks - and England boss Tuchel has said: “The club [Real Madrid] is a bit more defensive on the outlook regarding the weeks of his recovery. Jude is pushing, and as we know him, he is determined and super professional.“He will try everything to be with us in March. Of course we are in contact, that is a normal thing to do, and we wish him all the best... Whatever we can do for him, we will help and support him. It is a little race against time.”Bellingham has nothing to prove, as a talismanic presence for club and country, and could have been overlooked for Wembley-based friendly dates with Uruguay and Japan regardless - as Tuchel gives others an opportunity to prove their worth.Ex-Three Lions star Sharpe believes Bellingham will be on the plane, with it impossible to overlook his pedigree and passion. Speaking in association with BetBrain, Sharpe told GOAL: “I wouldn’t have March friendlies as a cut-off point for him. If he gets fully fit and gets back in the Madrid team and starts playing, then I think you have to take him.“The talent of the bloke, he can play in numerous positions. He’s experienced in big games, the Champions League with Real Madrid stands him in good stead for the World Cup. If he’s fit and playing regularly for Madrid, you have to take him.”That is an opinion shared by former England striker Michael Owen. The one-time Real Madrid frontman told GOAL recently when asked if Bellingham fits into the “untouchable” category and will be selected this summer even if he plays no part in pre-tournament friendlies: “Obviously if he comes back and everything is fine - between now and the end of the season - then, yes, he would go in the category for me as being untouchable. He is one if fit, in my eyes, that would go.“You don’t get players like him growing on trees. He’s playing for Real Madrid every week, one of their star players, one of our absolute gems, the jewels in our crown. It’s not ideal, he’s not the first person to get an injury leading up to a tournament, but if everything is fine and he recovers well, then of course he is in the squad.”Owen added on an untimely knock being suffered by one of English football’s leading lights: “I would find a place for Jude Bellingham if he’s fit. He’s one of the world’s best players, not only England’s best players. A lot depends on whether Tuchel pushes one of those 10s out in a wider position to fit them in.“Is there an obvious player on the left that is going to start? There are a few candidates. If two of these No.10s are playing exceptionally well, then could he push someone over onto that left side? “If everybody is absolutely fit and flying, and playing at their best, then to me Jude Bellingham is the best player for that position in the country. But, there are a few ifs and buts before then.”Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingBellingham will hope to have more La Liga and Champions League football under his belt before the end of the season - despite being likely to sit out Real’s last-16 showdown with Manchester City in elite European competition. England also have games against New Zealand and Costa Rica in Florida to come, allowing an international recall to be enjoyed before opening an eagerly-anticipated World Cup campaign against Croatia on June 17.

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Jude Bellingham's Stellar Reputation and Past Performances Make His Inclusion a No-brainer

Jude Bellingham's impact on both club and country, highlighted by his memorable overhead goal against Slovakia at the 2024 European Championship, solidifies his position as a talismanic figure. His experience in high-stakes matches, including the Champions League with Real Madrid, further underscores his value to the national team.

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Expert Opinions Support Bellingham's Selection Despite Injury Concerns

Former England stars like Lee Sharpe and Michael Owen advocate for Bellingham's inclusion, emphasizing his irreplaceable skill set and the rarity of his talent. The consensus is that if fully fit and performing well for Real Madrid, Bellingham should be an automatic choice for the World Cup squad.

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Bellingham's Race Against Time and Potential Impact on England's World Cup Campaign

Although currently sidelined with a hamstring injury, Bellingham remains determined to recover in time for key matches. With upcoming friendlies and crucial tournament fixtures on the horizon, England will closely monitor his progress and hope to integrate him back into the squad smoothly.

Published on Mar 2, 2026