Real Madrid upset with Thomas Tuchel's handling of Jude Bellingham on England duty

Published Apr. 2, 2026 9:42 a.m. ET

GOAL

Madrid's frustration over 'pointless' trip

The Spanish newspaper

Tuchel explains cautious approach

Tuchel insists that the decision to omit Bellingham from the 1-1 draw with Uruguay and the shock 1-0 defeat to Japan was a calculated one. The German coach prioritised the long-term health of the player over friendly results, especially with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon.

Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live

Champions League clash looms large

Madrid believe that Tuchel's refusal to grant Bellingham even a few minutes of game time has "done little to help" his readiness for their upcoming Champions League quarter-final first leg clash with Bayern Munich. The club feels that if Bellingham was fit enough to train with the national team, he should have been utilized to help him find his stride before returning to domestic duties for the business end of the season.

Bellingham's role in the England setup

Tuchel remains convinced that the trip was beneficial, regardless of Bellingham's lack of match action. However, the friction between the FA and Real Madrid suggests that future call-ups for the midfielder will be scrutinized heavily, especially if there are any lingering fitness concerns. For now, all eyes turn back to the Bernabeu to see if Bellingham can shake off the rust and play a key role in their bid for a La Liga and Champions League double over the coming weeks.