Bellingham’s brilliance abroad meets a backlash at home

December 6, 2025 Oliver Obel

Jude Bellingham’s rise from a Birmingham City academy graduate to one of world football’s defining midfielders has unfolded at a remarkable pace. After leaving England as a teenager to develop at Borussia Dortmund, he has since become a central figure at Real Madrid, where he has already collected major silverware.

Yet as his profile grows abroad, debate around him inside England continues to intensify.

Some scrutiny has focused not on technique but temperament. According to reports from RTÉ, Sky Sports, and ESPN, England manager Thomas Tuchel said in June that Bellingham’s mother found certain emotional reactions during matches “repulsive”. The comment reignited discussion in the UK about how young Black players are portrayed in the media.

Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright, speaking to outlets including The Independent, Yahoo Sports UK, and LBC, offered a strong defence of the midfielder.

Wright argued that some critics are not “ready for a black superstar”, adding that Bellingham’s influence “frightens these people because of his capability and the inspiration he can give”.

How criticism shapes decisions

Shaun Wright-Phillips, in an interview with BestBettingSites, backed his father’s assessment and suggested that sustained negativity might even influence Bellingham’s long-term view of returning to the Premier League.

“If I was Jude Bellingham, I think it could put me off from playing in the Premier League, definitely,” he said, arguing that England often targets its standout players before major tournaments.

He also warned that excessive criticism can alter how athletes carry themselves: “If you change a player’s personality, you change how they play.” Wright-Phillips added that remaining in Spain might allow Bellingham to enjoy football without the same level of public hostility.

Coverage from GB News and SportBIBLE in recent months echoed the broader theme: Bellingham has frequently become the focal point of debate even when performing well.

England’s tactical puzzle

Discussion around Bellingham also extends to England’s tactical planning for the 2026 World Cup. While some speculative UK reporting has toyed with selection hypotheticals, he remains foundational to Thomas Tuchel’s setup.

Wright-Phillips told BestBettingSites that England currently lack a natural, unpredictable No.10 and identified Cole Palmer as the closest fit. He also pointed to Marcus Rashford, Jarrod Bowen, Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden and Morgan Rogers as options for the wide or creative roles.

In midfield, he views Bellingham as an ideal advanced No.8, paired with Declan Rice as the holding midfielder and supported by Elliot Anderson. A solid defensive unit, he suggested, would allow England’s attacking players to “terrorise the opposition”.

Looking toward the World Cup draw

Bellingham remains integral to England’s plans as the team prepares for Friday’s draw for the 2026 World Cup group stage. The outcome will shape Tuchel’s next phase of squad-building as England aim to challenge deep into the tournament.

Sources: RTÉ, Sky Sports, ESPN, The Independent, Yahoo Sports UK, LBC, GB News, SportBIBLE, BestBettingSites interview.