Thomas Tuchel, England’s national team manager, has called Jude Bellingham a “special boy” while acknowledging that some of his emotional outbursts can be difficult to watch, even for Tuchel’s mother. The Real Madrid midfielder’s fiery personality was on full display during England’s 3-1 loss to Senegal, a friendly match that marked the first time an African side defeated the Three Lions.
Bellingham appeared to equalize late in the game at City Ground, but the goal was disallowed in a controversial decision. The frustration showed as Senegal went on to score a third during stoppage time. Tuchel had to step in to calm Bellingham after the final whistle as the 21-year-old protested the referee’s call.
Speaking to talkSPORT, Tuchel said the midfielder’s intensity can be both a strength and a challenge. “Sometimes you see the rage, the hunger, and the fire, and it comes out in a way that can be a bit repulsive, for example, for my mother when she sits in front of the TV,” he said. Still, Tuchel made it clear that Bellingham is an essential part of the team. “He’s a special boy. We are very happy to have him.”
Tuchel emphasized that Bellingham’s edge is a rare quality, one that England needs if it hopes to achieve major success. However, he also warned that this intensity needs to be directed in the right way. “It needs to be channeled toward the opponent and our goal, not toward teammates or referees,” Tuchel explained. “That fire is his strength, and I don’t want to dim it. But sometimes it intimidates those around him.”
The manager is trying to strike a balance between keeping Bellingham’s passion alive while ensuring it contributes positively to team dynamics. “If he can channel this the right way, it becomes something valuable,” Tuchel added.
Tuchel, who has previously won the Champions League with Chelsea and domestic titles with PSG and Bayern Munich, is under pressure to deliver England’s first major title since 1966. Despite England’s strong tournament history under Gareth Southgate, including a Euro 2024 final appearance, Tuchel’s early results have been mixed. Three unconvincing World Cup qualifying wins over Albania, Latvia, and Andorra were followed by the disappointing loss to Senegal.
Still, Tuchel remains focused and optimistic. “I already have an idea of what to do,” he said. “Not everything was bad. These games have given us clarity. Each match helps us shape the team and find solutions.”
With a year to go before the 2026 World Cup, Tuchel is using every opportunity to refine his squad, and Bellingham, fire and all, is central to that vision.
By Yockshard Enyendi