England manager Thomas Tuchel has confirmed that Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden will have “central roles” in his system for the upcoming qualifiers against Serbia and Albania, as part of the road to the 2026 World Cup. After missing the previous two call-ups, both players return in superb form with their clubs: the Real Madrid midfielder as a top scorer from midfield, and the Manchester City star as a key figure in Pep Guardiola’s recent victories.

“They are big names, big talents, and big personalities. Both are fit, sharp, and making a difference for their clubs. It was an obvious decision to bring them back. They will have central roles so we can get the best out of them,” Tuchel said during a press conference announcing his 25-man squad.

Bellingham, the Brain in the No. 10 Role

The German coach was clear about where Bellingham will fit into his system. “Jude comes in as a No. 10 because that’s his best position. He has an extraordinary quality — he gets into the box and scores goals. We’ll find the space for him to do that freely,” Tuchel explained, emphasizing the Real Madrid star’s determination and maturity despite his young age.

The midfielder, who missed previous call-ups due to shoulder surgery and later a technical decision, has responded on the pitch with three goals and one assist in his last four matches for Los Blancos. His return also symbolizes Tuchel’s intent to give England a more offensive and balanced identity moving forward.

“Jude accepted my previous decision with professionalism and reacted in the best way possible — with incredible performances. He’s very young but full of hunger, ambition, and leadership,” the coach added.

Foden: More Than a Winger

Tuchel also explained his vision for Phil Foden, whom he no longer views as a traditional winger but as a creative player operating in central areas. “I don’t see him as a winger anymore. He’s a mix between a nine and a ten. His role will be closer to the opponent’s box, where he can make a difference with his technique and intelligence,” he said.

The Manchester City player, fresh off a brace against Borussia Dortmund, has convinced the England staff that his impact is far greater when he plays freely between the lines. His return, alongside Bellingham’s, is expected to be a cornerstone in the new structure Tuchel is building.

With England already qualified for the 2026 World Cup, the coach plans to use these matches to fine-tune his system and shape the foundation of his squad. “These games are an opportunity to test combinations and prepare for what’s ahead. We want Bellingham and Foden to be the core of England’s future,” Tuchel concluded, making it clear that his team will revolve around two of Europe’s brightest talents.