It seems almost absurd now, but there was genuine debate about whether Jude Bellingham would even start for England at the 2026 World Cup. Fast forward to the quarter-finals, and the 23-year-old has been one of the standout players of the entire tournament.
Four goals, an assist, and three player-of-the-match awards tell the story of a remarkable resurgence. Bellingham has not just earned his place — he has made himself undroppable.
A Turbulent Road to the World Cup
Bellingham’s journey to this World Cup was far from straightforward. After a sensational first season at Real Madrid where he won La Liga and the Champions League, his form dipped. Injuries, including shoulder surgery, disrupted his rhythm, and Real Madrid have not won a major trophy since that 2023 triumph.
Then came the tension with England manager Thomas Tuchel. In the summer of 2025, Tuchel made headlines when he said his mother found some of Bellingham’s on-field behaviour “a bit repulsive.” The comment did not go down well with those close to the player, and Tuchel later apologised.
Things got more complicated in October when Bellingham was left out of the England squad entirely. Tuchel said the door was open for “special players,” but the message was clear: Bellingham was no longer guaranteed a starting spot.
By June 2025, Tuchel openly stated that Bellingham had “14 or 15 potential starters” competing for places. The narrative had shifted — should it be Morgan Rogers or Bellingham at number 10?
The Turning Point
Everything changed during the World Cup warm-up matches against New Zealand and Costa Rica. Bellingham looked sharp, hungry, and focused. The doubts started to fade.
Then came the tournament itself. In England’s opening match against Croatia, Bellingham scored a brilliant solo goal to put his side 3-2 ahead. Against Panama, when England were struggling to break the deadlock, it was Bellingham who delivered the crucial opener.
Even when substituted in all three group games, his influence was undeniable. Against DR Congo in the last 32, he played the full match and scored twice in what many called one of England’s greatest away victories.
More Than Just Goals
What has impressed observers most is not just Bellingham’s goals, but his complete transformation in attitude and approach. After the famous “who else” celebration at Euro 2024, this time he has spoken about preferring to assist rather than score.
His work rate has been exceptional. Remember his goal-saving challenge against Mexico? That defensive contribution showed a player willing to do the dirty work for the team, not just the glamorous stuff.
Bellingham has also been praised for his tactical flexibility, moving between the number 10 and number 8 roles depending on what the team needs. He is now part of England’s leadership group alongside Harry Kane and others.
Off the pitch, the change has been just as striking. In his media interviews, Bellingham has shown maturity and humility, playing down his individual performances and praising the collective effort. After winning player-of-the-match awards, he even offered one to the opposing team.
From Birmingham to the World Stage
It is easy to forget that Bellingham is only 23. His rise has been extraordinary by any measure.
He made his debut for Birmingham City aged just 16 years and 38 days in August 2019, becoming the club’s youngest ever player. A Premier League scouting report from that first game noted his “great athleticism, long legs, graceful running and work-rate.”
Within a year, he had moved to Borussia Dortmund for £20.7 million. Birmingham retired his number 22 shirt — a remarkable honour for a teenager who had played just 44 games.
At Dortmund, he scored on his debut and quickly established himself as one of the most exciting young talents in European football. England manager Gareth Southgate fast-tracked him into the senior squad when he was still just 17.
By the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Bellingham was a regular. His headed opener in the 6-2 win over Iran was his first senior international goal. Since then, there have been nine more.
The move to Real Madrid in 2023 took him to another level entirely. His first season was sensational — 19 goals in La Liga and a Champions League winners’ medal. He was a Galactico in every sense.
What Changed?
Nobody knows exactly what happened between Tuchel and Bellingham behind the scenes. Was the tension overblown by the media, or was there a genuine power struggle between the coach and his star player?
What is clear is that something clicked. Bellingham arrived at the World Cup looking happy, focused, and determined. He has been a model teammate, praising others and putting the team first.
Perhaps Tuchel’s approach — asserting his authority and making Bellingham fight for his place — had the desired effect. Or maybe Bellingham simply grew up, using the setback as motivation.
Either way, the result has been spectacular. England have a player who combines world-class talent with genuine humility and work rate. That is a dangerous combination.
The Quarter-Final Test
England face Norway in the quarter-finals on Saturday, with Erling Haaland leading the opposition attack. It is the biggest test yet for Tuchel’s side.
For Bellingham, it represents another opportunity to cement his status as one of the tournament’s best players. A strong performance against Norway would only strengthen his case.
At 23, Bellingham has already achieved more than most players do in an entire career. A Champions League title, a La Liga championship, and now a World Cup campaign where he has been one of the best players on the planet.
The boy from Birmingham has matured in the brightest spotlight. Whatever happens next, Bellingham’s World Cup 2026 has been a story of redemption, growth, and sheer brilliance.
