Thomas Tuchel believes Jude Bellingham faces a fight to earn a starting spot for England at the upcoming World Cup. The manager's assessment comes despite Bellingham's impressive Euro 2024 campaign where he started all seven matches. Recent fitness concerns have complicated the midfielder's position under Tuchel, who replaced Gareth Southgate.

Bellingham's season has been disrupted by injury issues, missing September qualifiers and October's international camp. His relationship with Tuchel has faced scrutiny, particularly after the manager called his behavior against Senegal "repulsive," though he later apologized. The 22-year-old was also benched for November qualifiers following his reaction to substitution against Albania.

However, Bellingham showed positive signs in England's recent 1-0 win over New Zealand, taking the captain's armband after halftime. Tuchel noted the midfielder has reached a "sweet spot" physically, returning fresh and energized. Despite missed Champions League and La Liga title contention with Real Madrid, his current form presents England with a valuable option for the tournament.