England manager Thomas Tuchel once again expressed his full confidence in Marcus Rashford, who is currently thriving during his loan spell with Barcelona. The German coach stated that the forward “is in the squad because he deserves it” and dismissed any concerns about a possible dip in form as his time with the Catalan club nears its end.

“It’s November and Marcus is doing well. He’s been called up because he’s earned it. He has to show his level every three days with Barcelona, and that’s good for us. He must also do the same here, in every international camp—that’s normal and the best thing that can happen,” Tuchel said at a press conference.

The English forward, who has recorded six goals and nine assists so far this season, has been included in four of the five call-ups since Tuchel took charge of the Three Lions, cementing himself as a key piece in England’s attacking setup.

Rashford: Key for Barcelona and Facing an Uncertain Future

At 27, Rashford is enjoying a revitalized chapter at Barcelona, where he has regained both consistency and confidence—two things he had lost at Manchester United. However, his long-term future remains uncertain. Under contract with the Red Devils until 2028, his stay at the Catalan club beyond this season will depend on negotiations between the two sides.

“There’s still a long way to go until the summer, and my mind isn’t on what will happen with the World Cup. What matters is that Marcus is doing well now—he’s competitive, and that’s why he’s here. He needs to prove it in the next two matches,” emphasized Tuchel, who insists on keeping the focus on the present.

The decision to loan the forward to Barcelona has proven beneficial for everyone involved: the player has regained form and confidence, while the England manager now has an in-form, match-ready Rashford at his disposal.

Bellingham’s Return Also Excites Tuchel

Alongside highlighting Rashford’s presence, Thomas Tuchel also celebrated the return of Jude Bellingham to the national team. The Real Madrid midfielder missed the last two call-ups due to shoulder surgery and technical reasons but is now ready to face Serbia and Albania in the upcoming international fixtures.

“It’s great to have him back. There’s a competitive spirit and everyone’s in good spirits. Bellingham brings positive energy to the group,” Tuchel noted.

Although England has already secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup, the German coach intends to use these matches to strengthen team chemistry and maintain intensity. “Both Phil (Foden) and Jude hadn’t been able to train at full pace until now, but they’re back at 100%,” he added.

With Rashford in top form and Bellingham fully recovered, Tuchel continues fine-tuning his plans for an England side aiming to reach the World Cup with the perfect balance of talent, youth, and maturity.