England's Jude Bellingham applauds fans after the 2-0 win against Panama at New York New Jersey Stadium on June 27, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. PIC: AFP
DOHA: Jude Bellingham has long divided opinion despite establishing himself among football's elite. While some critics continue to label the Real Madrid midfielder as overrated, the 2026 FIFA World Cup has provided another reminder of why England continue to place their faith in the 22-year-old, who turns 23 tomorrow.
Bellingham arrived in North America carrying the weight of expectation after an inconsistent club season that was disrupted by injury. Questions surrounded his place in Thomas Tuchel's starting lineup, with Aston Villa midfielder Morgan Rogers pushing strongly for a place following his impressive form.
The England manager, however, never doubted his midfielder's quality.
Bellingham justified that faith immediately, scoring in England's 4-2 victory over Croatia. In doing so, he became the youngest European player to feature in four major international tournaments, further adding to an already remarkable list of achievements at such a young age.
His performances have continued to attract attention throughout the group stage. Although England were held to a goalless draw by Ghana, Bellingham was voted Player of the Match despite insisting the award should have gone to one of Ghana's defenders.
"I didn't deserve it, to be honest," Bellingham said. "It should have gone to one of their lads who defended so well."
The midfielder responded in emphatic fashion against Panama, producing one of the tournament's standout displays with a goal and an assist in England's 2-0 victory that secured top spot in Group L. It was his second consecutive Player of the Match award in the tournament, highlighting the influence he continues to have for the Three Lions.
Despite playing in a more advanced role for England than he does at Real Madrid, Bellingham insists his focus remains on helping the team rather than his individual position.
"I don't care where I play on the field," he said. "I always want to play well for my team."
Tuchel believes the midfielder is returning to his best after recovering from injury and has praised both his physical condition and mentality.
"You can see Jude has the decisiveness and bite," Tuchel said after the Croatia victory. "He is in a sweet spot."
The England coach has also backed Bellingham's fiery character, dismissing concerns that opponents attempting to provoke him could become a distraction.
"Sometimes it fuels Jude," Tuchel said following the Ghana draw. "He accepts those moments because it brings out the edge in him."
England forward Marcus Rashford also underlined Bellingham's importance to the squad after the Panama victory.
"He brings so much to the team," Rashford said. "He has a lot of talent and he delivers."
With the knockout stage now underway, England's ambitions will increasingly depend on their biggest players producing in decisive moments. For Bellingham, the World Cup offers the perfect stage to answer those who continue to question his reputation.
