England’s most anticipated return

After missing two international call-ups, Jude Bellingham is back with the England national team. The Real Madrid midfielder — who skipped one list due to shoulder surgery and another by technical decision — returns just in time for the matches against Serbia and Albania, games that will help fine-tune England’s path to the 2026 World Cup.

Coach Thomas Tuchel, avoiding euphemisms, welcomed him back but delivered a very clear message: the demands will be absolute.

“It’s good that he’s back, the atmosphere has been very positive these months, but now it’s his responsibility to contribute,” he said in his press conference.

Tuchel raises the bar

The manager made it clear there will be no special treatment for the Real Madrid No. 5:

“I expect Jude and Phil Foden to show who they are. To reintegrate quickly and contribute right away. That’s what’s expected from them.”

England is already qualified for the World Cup, but Tuchel wants to use this window to recover automatisms, competitive rhythm, and internal leadership.

“The attitude has been excellent, there’s a very competitive atmosphere. We have one more training session before the match and Jude will be part of it,” he added.

Bellingham returns with rhythm… and pressure

The midfielder has regained form at Real Madrid following his operation, and Tuchel sees him as essential to his project. Bringing back both Bellingham and Phil Foden suggests England is beginning to forge its core heading into next summer.

Tuchel confirmed that both players arrive without much training time yet, but full of ambition:
“They haven’t been able to train much until yesterday, but today they’ll work at full intensity.”

Beyond the matches against Serbia and Albania, one thing is clear: for England, Bellingham isn’t just a return… he’s a responsibility. Because when you’re a global superstar, the bar never drops.