Jamie Carragher believes Jude Bellingham’s role in England’s World Cup squad could become one of the defining talking points of the tournament, warning it may “dominate airwaves” if not carefully managed.
The Real Madrid midfielder was named in Thomas Tuchel’s 26-man squad for the competition in the United States, but is not guaranteed a starting place for the opener against Croatia on June 17.
Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers is currently expected to start in the number 10 role, with Carragher suggesting Tuchel may be reluctant to disrupt a system that has recently found rhythm.
The former Liverpool defender believes the biggest challenge may not be tactical, but managing expectations around one of England’s most high-profile players.
“I don’t think Jude Bellingham’s going to start the first game, I’d be surprised if he does,” Carragher said on The Overlap’s Stick to Football podcast on Wednesday.
“He hasn’t had a great season, he’s had his injuries but I think that will be really interesting to see how the tournament goes on.
“That dynamic between Thomas Tuchel and Jude Bellingham, whether he gets in the team and if he’s not in the team what happens. I think that is going to dominate airwaves all summer.
“I just don’t think he leaves Rogers out when he’s been his man for the England team, he’s finished the season strongly and scored in a European final… honestly I think it could blow up at the World Cup. It is how it is managed by both of them, Tuchel and Bellingham.
“He will start with Rogers and I do think almost maybe by the third game, Bellingham will find himself back in because he’s too big of a figure, too much of a good player and (produces) big moments.”
England’s midfield balance is already emerging as a key storyline ahead of their tournament opener, with competition for creative roles particularly intense.
While Bellingham remains one of the most influential players in the squad, Carragher suggests Tuchel may initially prioritise form and tactical cohesion over reputation.
The situation sets up an early test of Tuchel’s management at a tournament where England are among the favourites to lift the trophy.
With expectations high, England’s ability to manage star personalities alongside team structure could prove crucial to their World Cup ambitions.
As Carragher hints, how Tuchel handles the Bellingham question may shape not just England’s midfield, but the broader narrative of their summer campaign.
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