jude Bellingham Faces Intense Scrutiny from English Press Ahead of 2026 World Cup
Recent international matches have ignited a controversy surrounding England midfielder Jude Bellingham, drawing intense scrutiny from the English press and raising questions about his commitment to the national team. The debate centers on Bellingham’s reaction to being substituted during a recent game against Serbia, sparking accusations of selfishness and a lack of team spirit.
The incident occurred in the 75th minute when manager Thomas Tuchel opted to replace Bellingham,who had just received a yellow card,with Morgan Rogers. English journalists present at the match in Tirana reported that Bellingham appeared displeased with the decision, waving his arms upon realizing he would be substituted. However, he left the field normally after the change.
further fueling the controversy, some reports claimed Bellingham was more focused on his own substitution than celebrating a goal scored by teammate Harry Kane. Kane himself refuted this claim, posting a photo on social media showing a high-five with Bellingham instantly after the goal.
Tuchel addressed the situation at a press conference, stating, “Behavior is key. Sometimes we make decisions and the players have to abide by them. I will review the images later.”
The incident has triggered a wave of articles questioning Bellingham’s suitability as a starter for England and even his inclusion in the squad for the 2026 World Cup. A bookmaker even displayed a sign outside Wembley reading “Bellingham does not have to be a starter in the national team,” and the player was reportedly booed by some fans when entering the field against Serbia.
Arsenal legend Ian Wright offered insight into the situation, suggesting the press is actively seeking a narrative due to a lack of other compelling storylines before the World Cup. “They have to create this story as there is nothing else to talk about until the World Cup, so all these months are going to be like this. They hate that they can’t get to him,” Wright commented. “He is a great young boy with talent and love in abundance.”
Several factors contribute to the heightened scrutiny. Bellingham rarely grants interviews, avoids the English media in mixed zones, and, unlike key teammates Harry Kane and Marcus Rashford, does not play in the Premier League. Having left Birmingham City at age 16, he lacks the extensive history within the English league that Kane and Rashford possess. This perceived distance allows the English press to criticize him with less fear of direct repercussions,as he is not tied to a Premier League club.
