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Jude Bellingham enters the 2026 World Cup with the aim of restoring his status as England's leading figure, after a period where his role in the national team has been more in question than at Euro 2024.
Two years ago, the midfielder was one of England's great protagonists at the European Championship, becoming a hero thanks to a spectacular last-minute goal against Slovakia. Although the Three Lions were defeated by Spain in the final in Berlin, Bellingham was seen as the leader of the new generation and the player who could lead the team to major trophies.
However, the situation has changed in the run-up to the World Cup. His influence on the national team is no longer the same, partly due to increased competition and the tactical choices of coach Thomas Tuchel.
The German has built a squad where no one has a secure place, creating fierce competition for key positions. Bellingham, in particular, is competing for the role behind Harry Kane with Morgan Rogers, who has made significant progress in recent years.
At times, the relationship between Bellingham and Tuchel has been perceived as not entirely smooth, especially after the coach's comments about the player's behavior and decisions to leave him out of several training camps. This period has also affected his appearances with the national team.
However, in the current World Cup squad in the United States, Bellingham has appeared in good physical condition and with greater focus. He has integrated positively into the group and is considered one of the leading figures of the team, despite his young age.
Former English players and analysts continue to consider Bellingham as one of England's strongest weapons. According to them, his experience in big matches, both in international tournaments and with Real Madrid in the Champions League, makes him a player capable of deciding the fate of important meetings.
On the other hand, Tuchel has reiterated that no player is irreplaceable, with the exception of Harry Kane, hinting that Bellingham must also earn his place on the field.
That puts the midfielder in a crucial test in the opening match against Croatia. There is a belief in the England camp that Bellingham's improved form could be a decisive factor in the team's journey to a first World Cup trophy since 1966.
For this reason, Bellingham enters the 2026 World Cup not only as one of the greatest talents in English football, but also as a player who must reaffirm his status as a leader and protagonist of the national team.
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