Jude Bellingham backed to learn from Thomas Tuchel ‘personality clash’ as England boss stamps authority at World Cup

Jude Bellingham’s relationship with England manager Thomas Tuchel has come under scrutiny during the 2026 World Cup, but former Three Lions defender Danny Mills believes any apparent friction could ultimately help the Real Madrid star mature into an even better player.

Bellingham answered his critics in style during England’s opening 4-2 victory over Croatia, producing a commanding display capped by a crucial second-half goal.

However, questions continue to swirl around his working relationship with Tuchel, who has shown a willingness to challenge some of his biggest stars since taking charge of the national team.

Bellingham delivers when England needed him

The 22-year-old justified his selection in England’s No.10 role with another influential performance on the biggest stage.

After an energetic first-half display, Bellingham burst into the penalty area early in the second half to restore England’s lead, setting the Three Lions on course for an important opening victory.

With competition from Morgan Rogers and other attacking midfield options, Bellingham once again demonstrated why he is regarded as one of the world’s elite young talents.

Tuchel sends a message to the squad

Despite Bellingham’s importance to England, there have been suggestions that Tuchel has not always been entirely comfortable with some aspects of the midfielder’s on-field behaviour.

Speaking exclusively to GOAL on behalf of betTOM, former England international Mills believes there has likely been some friction between the pair.

“I think clearly there was some kind of personality clash between the two,” Mills said.

“That’s happened on a couple of occasions.

“I think obviously Thomas Tuchel was trying to say that I’m the boss, I’m in charge, and rightly so. It’s his prerogative to pick who he needs to pick and when.”

Mills believes the England manager’s stance was designed to send a wider message throughout the dressing room.

“It was maybe just a shot across the bows to everybody — I am the boss, I will pick who I want to pick, I will decide,” he explained.

“And no matter who you are, what you are, how good you think you are, if I don’t pick you then you’re going to have to get on with it.”

A learning experience for Bellingham

While Bellingham is already one of football’s biggest stars, Mills believes people often forget how young he still is.

The former Leeds United defender suggested that any disagreements between player and manager could ultimately help accelerate the midfielder’s development.

“He’s obviously an outstanding player and he’s also very, very young,” Mills said.

“I think we forget that at times.

“Maybe some of the antics and outbursts that Thomas Tuchel didn’t like previously — perhaps they’ve had a conversation and it’s a learning curve for everybody.

“Jude will mature as he gets older and becomes more experienced.”

Bellingham thrives under pressure

One of Bellingham’s defining traits throughout his career has been his ability to respond when challenged.

Whether at Birmingham City, Borussia Dortmund, Real Madrid or England, the midfielder has often produced his best performances when faced with adversity.

Mills believes that competitive edge remains one of Bellingham’s greatest strengths.

“I think it’s a mix of both,” he said when asked whether Bellingham responds best to tough love or encouragement.

“He clearly likes the confidence and belief that he’s very important, and that’s important to him.

“I guess he needs to feel loved within that, but ultimately he needs to keep his head down and put in performances like he did against Croatia.”

Team success remains the priority

With England aiming to challenge for World Cup glory, Mills believes Bellingham’s continued evolution as a team player will be crucial.

The former defender pointed to the midfielder’s experiences at Real Madrid and under elite coaches as valuable lessons that can help him take the next step.

“We know what he can do,” Mills added.

“We know he’s that driving midfield player who can make those runs into the box and finish chances.

“He just has to make sure he learns from his experiences with England and Real Madrid.

“At this level, you have to be the ultimate team player, and that’s what you need in a squad that’s hopefully going to be together for seven games.”

As England prepare for their crucial clash against Ghana, Tuchel will be hoping that Bellingham’s performance against Croatia was only the beginning of another influential World Cup campaign.