England manager Thomas Tuchel has recalled Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden to the national squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Serbia and Albania, praising both players for their impressive club form.
Speaking at a press conference, Tuchel described the pair as “immense” contributors to Real Madrid and Manchester City, noting their decisive roles in recent victories. “They play regularly and contribute significantly to their teams’ success,” he said. “We’re delighted they’re in form and back with us.”
The England boss also handed a first senior call-up to Alex Scott, the 22-year-old Bournemouth midfielder, following his standout performances this season. Tuchel said Scott “earned his spot” after helping England’s Under-21 side win the European Championship last summer and maintaining strong form in the Premier League.
New Additions and Notable Absences
Alongside Scott, Nick Pope, Nico O’Reilly, and Adam Wharton return to the squad. However, Danny Welbeck, Jack Grealish, and Trent Alexander-Arnold have not been included this time around.
Tuchel clarified that selection decisions were based on current form and team balance, rather than reputation.
Full England Squad:
Goalkeepers: Dean Henderson (Crystal Palace), Jordan Pickford (Everton), Nick Pope (Newcastle)
Defenders: Dan Burn (Newcastle), Marc Guehi (Crystal Palace), Reece James (Chelsea), Ezri Konsa (Aston Villa), Nico O’Reilly (Manchester City), Jarell Quansah (Bayer Leverkusen), Djed Spence (Tottenham), John Stones (Manchester City)
Midfielders: Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest), Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid), Jordan Henderson (Brentford), Declan Rice (Arsenal), Morgan Rogers (Aston Villa), Alex Scott (Bournemouth), Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace)
Forwards: Jarrod Bowen (West Ham), Eberechi Eze (Arsenal), Phil Foden (Manchester City), Anthony Gordon (Newcastle), Harry Kane (Bayern Munich), Marcus Rashford (Barcelona, loan from Manchester United), Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)
Scott Earns His Opportunity
Tuchel highlighted Scott’s growth, saying, “Alex deserves to be with us. He performed brilliantly at the Under-21 Euros and has since become a key player for Bournemouth. His consistency and work ethic made this an easy choice.”
The midfielder has played every Premier League match this season, scoring once and helping Bournemouth to a strong start. Tuchel confirmed Scott will be tested as a number eight, adding, “He’s earned this through performance, not potential.”
Focus on Bellingham and Foden
Both Bellingham and Foden were left out of the October squad due to fitness and form concerns. Since then, they’ve returned to top-level performance. Bellingham, recently recovered from shoulder surgery, has scored three goals in his last four matches for Real Madrid, while Foden netted twice in City’s Champions League win over Borussia Dortmund.
“Jude fits best in the number 10 role,” Tuchel explained. “He’s a natural goal-scorer from midfield, arriving in the box like a striker. That’s rare and special.”
On Foden, Tuchel added, “He’s at his best when operating centrally, between the lines — more of a hybrid between a 9 and a 10. I don’t see him as a winger anymore.”
England’s Path to the 2026 World Cup
England has already secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup, scheduled to take place in Canada, Mexico, and the United States. They will play their final Group K matches on 13 November against Serbia and 16 November against Albania. These matches will serve as the team’s final competitive outings before the tournament.
Tuchel on His Future with England
Tuchel, who replaced Gareth Southgate as England manager in January 2025, is currently under an 18-month contract. When asked about extending his stay, he said, “I’m enjoying the job and happy with our progress. The support from the federation and the players has been excellent. For now, my focus is on the upcoming matches — everything else will follow naturally.”
