Bellingham hits new heights for England as Tuchel gets best out of Real Madrid star

Jude Bellingham has reached new heights for England, with Thomas Tuchel credited for getting the best out of the Real Madrid star across the latest stretch of matches. After England’s 3-0 win sobre Chequia en Wembley, Tuchel’s final gesture toward Bellingham—an affectionate slap on the backside—signaled how dramatically the relationship has shifted. The article traces a turnaround from earlier criticism, including a June 2025 remark from Tuchel about elements of Bellingham’s behavior that his mother found “a bit repulsive.” It recounts tension in Euro 2024 and Tuchel’s decision in last October’s camp to drop Bellingham due to lack of playing time at Real Madrid following shoulder surgery. Now, Bellingham is described as settled, with England aiming to end a long title wait and co-host the 2028 UEFA European Championship.