World Cup 2026: England’s Jude Bellingham returns to indispensable status

But after World Cup warm-up matches against New Zealand and Costa Rica, things started to look different – with Bellingham shining.

In the first match of the World Cup against Croatia, Bellingham scored a stunning solo effort to put England 3-2 ahead.

Against Panama, when England were struggling to make a breakthrough in the final group game, Bellingham scored the decisive goal to break the deadlock.

While he was substituted in all three group matches, Bellingham’s form was solid.

Against the Democratic Republic of the Congo in the round of 32, he played an impressive full match.

Two goals in a landmark win in Mexico – heralded as one of England’s greatest away victories – fueled his resurgence.

Bellingham scored twice again in a 2-1 win over Norway in a closely contested quarter-final in Miami to put England just one win away from their first men’s World Cup final since 1966.

In six matches he won four player of the match awards.

These awards meant he had to give media interviews, where he portrayed maturity and humility, downplayed his role and talked about the team’s work ethic and teamwork, while praising his opponents – even presenting one of his player awards to the other team.

After “Who else?” Celebrating 2024, he said this time he would rather make an assist than score.

The change in tone matches his performance on the field. His work rate is a driving force alongside his talent – ​​remember his goal-save challenge against Mexico.

He has won praise for his adaptability, particularly in moving between the 10th and 8th roles at times, depending on the team’s needs, and is a key part of the England leadership group with Kane and others.

It is not known exactly what happened with Tuchel and Bellingham.

Was it too much or was there some level of the German asserting his leadership of the entire team – perhaps recognizing and managing this key personality syndrome?

Whatever the truth, Bellingham looked happy, played well and were a key part of a team that looked really cohesive.

It’s easy to forget, with everything he has achieved, that Bellingham is only 23 years old. He had to mature in the bright lights.

Bellingham – and Kane – are widely viewed as indispensable stars in the England national team.

And with a semi-final against Switzerland or holders Argentina on Wednesday, there could be more goals to cement his greatness.