LONDON -- Jude Bellingham's final interaction with Thomas Tuchel after England's 3-0 win over Czechia at Wembley on Tuesday was to receive a slap on the backside from his coach in recognition of another influential display. It isn't long ago since it seemed like Tuchel wanted to kick him there. Bellingham's transformation from "repulsive" to resplendent is one of this England manager's biggest success stories and the Real Madrid star has arguably taken his game to another level across these last four matches.
Tuchel's comment in June 2025 that there were elements of Bellingham's behavior which his mother found "a bit repulsive" felt like a shot across the bow of a player who could, quite literally, make or break Tuchel's tenure. The sight of Bellingham and Tuchel operated in tandem is among the greatest signs of hope that England can end what will stretch to 62 years of hurt and win the 2028 UEFA European Championship as tournament co-hosts.
It was during last year's October camp when Tuchel dropped Bellingham from the squad altogether. During this period, he talked a lot about "team spirit" being the "key factor" and a "brotherhood" being formed. Bellingham's response was not only to force his way into the team but he became the first England men's player to score seven goals at a major tournament. Sources have suggested his relationship with Harry Kane was little more than cordial earlier in their careers, but the pair's mutual respect blossomed at this summer's World Cup.
Source: ESPN Soccer · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing