Thomas Tuchel hits back at Jude Bellingham after England star's substitution antics

The German manager has led England to the 2026 World Cup qualification.

Jude Bellingham voiced annoyance at being withdrawn near the conclusion of England’s 2-0 victory over Albania in World Cup European qualifiers on Sunday, but England coach Thomas Tuchel insists the midfielder has to embrace his decisions.

After making his first England start since June, Bellingham was taken off four minutes after being booked in the 80th minute of the game. Shortly after the second goal, the 22-year-old Real Madrid player, who had spotted Morgan Rogers ready to take his position on the touchline, raised his arms in rage.

The Real Madrid midfielder, who had already received a booking, indicated with his arms that he was unwilling to be replaced.

Tuchel speaks on Jude Bellingham’s behaviour after being substituted

Thomas Tuchel had announced prior to Sunday’s match that he would talk to his players about avoiding any unnecessary red cards. But Bellingham was having none of it after getting substituted.

Commenting on the England star’s substitution antics, Thomas Tuchel said:

“I didn’t see it that way, I’m going to have to review it.”

“I saw that he was not happy. I don’t want to make it bigger at the moment than it is.”

“I think to a certain degree if you have players like Jude, who are so competitive, they will never like it, but, as you said, my word stands.”

“It is about standards and level, and it’s a commitment to and respect to each other, so someone is waiting outside, and we will not change our decision just because someone is waving their arms.”

For England’s final qualifying match, Thomas Tuchel made seven changes and subs, including Jude Bellingham, who played a big hand in both attack and defence.

According to Tuchel, the England star’s substitution antics create a “bad impression” if specific occurrences detract from the group, which has been the main emphasis of England’s flawless World Cup qualifying campaign.

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