Thomas Tuchel's squad announcement for England has been met with mixed reactions, as some fans are delighted to see Jude Bellingham back in the mix, while others worry that his ego might get in the way of the team's success. The German manager has made it clear that he wants Bellingham to bring his 'edge' and 'fire' to the pitch, but also knows that celebrity can be a double-edged sword.
Bellingham had much to ponder after being left out of last month's squad, watching England secure their World Cup spot without him. However, he has responded in champion style, scoring crucial goals for Real Madrid against Barcelona and Juventus. It's clear that Tuchel wants Bellingham to intimidate opponents rather than teammates, but also knows that there's a fine line between confidence and ego.
Tuchel's approach is to create an environment where Bellingham can thrive, while also keeping him grounded. "There is no problem with him, there is no problem with the character," he said. "Jude just has the edge. You need a certain edge to reach the heights that he reached." However, Tuchel also knows that individual quality must be balanced with team harmony.
The question now is how to use England's various creators on the pitch. Phil Foden, another talented No 10, deserves love and guidance from his manager. Foden has struggled to hit the heights this season, but Tuchel believes he profits from clarity and a clear task.
Tuchel's selection of Bellingham as a No 10 alongside speedy wingers on the flanks is designed to create an attacking balance. Meanwhile, Foden will play in the No 9-10ish position, in the middle of the pitch, where Tuchel believes he suits him most. This clarity helps prevent overcomplicating things.
However, there's still a sense that Bellingham is on trial, and his ego might get in the way of the team's success. Tuchel knows this and will be watching him carefully. The key to success lies in finding the right balance between individual brilliance and team harmony.
With qualification secured, it's also an opportunity for experimentation. Tuchel hinted at using Foden as a false 9 against Serbia or Albania. This could help Kane get his relationship with Bellingham going, which has been missing since the Euros. The connection is crucial to unlocking England's full potential.
Ultimately, Tuchel wants Bellingham to leave his ego at the door and focus on what makes him a strong team player. With this approach, an even stronger England team could be forged, one that can reach the heights of its potential.
Bellingham had much to ponder after being left out of last month's squad, watching England secure their World Cup spot without him. However, he has responded in champion style, scoring crucial goals for Real Madrid against Barcelona and Juventus. It's clear that Tuchel wants Bellingham to intimidate opponents rather than teammates, but also knows that there's a fine line between confidence and ego.
Tuchel's approach is to create an environment where Bellingham can thrive, while also keeping him grounded. "There is no problem with him, there is no problem with the character," he said. "Jude just has the edge. You need a certain edge to reach the heights that he reached." However, Tuchel also knows that individual quality must be balanced with team harmony.
The question now is how to use England's various creators on the pitch. Phil Foden, another talented No 10, deserves love and guidance from his manager. Foden has struggled to hit the heights this season, but Tuchel believes he profits from clarity and a clear task.
Tuchel's selection of Bellingham as a No 10 alongside speedy wingers on the flanks is designed to create an attacking balance. Meanwhile, Foden will play in the No 9-10ish position, in the middle of the pitch, where Tuchel believes he suits him most. This clarity helps prevent overcomplicating things.
However, there's still a sense that Bellingham is on trial, and his ego might get in the way of the team's success. Tuchel knows this and will be watching him carefully. The key to success lies in finding the right balance between individual brilliance and team harmony.
With qualification secured, it's also an opportunity for experimentation. Tuchel hinted at using Foden as a false 9 against Serbia or Albania. This could help Kane get his relationship with Bellingham going, which has been missing since the Euros. The connection is crucial to unlocking England's full potential.
Ultimately, Tuchel wants Bellingham to leave his ego at the door and focus on what makes him a strong team player. With this approach, an even stronger England team could be forged, one that can reach the heights of its potential.