Jude Bellingham has firmly established himself as a central figure for the England national team, drawing high praise from pundits and coaching staff alike. Analysts are increasingly discussing the 23-year-old midfielder as a player with the potential to reach the very pinnacle of the sport. This standing marks a stark contrast to his situation a year prior, when his place in the national setup faced uncertainty under manager Thomas Tuchel.
During a Nations League fixture in Rijeka, Bellingham delivered a masterclass as England secured a commanding 7-0 victory over Croatia, handing the opponents their heaviest defeat in history. The Real Madrid star contributed a goal and provided three assists, becoming the first Englishman to register a triple assist tally in a single international match since Trent Alexander-Arnold accomplished the feat against San Marino in late 2021.
Following the match, former Manchester United midfielder Roy Keane remarked on television that Bellingham possesses the complete package of physical power, passing accuracy, and scoring threat. Keane noted that despite his current excellence, substantial room for development remains. Observers also highlighted Bellingham's defensive work rate and off-the-ball intensity, attributes that reportedly serve to motivate his teammates and solidify his growing status as a squad leader.
This performance highlights a remarkable turnaround from late 2025, when Tuchel omitted Bellingham from a squad selection and cautioned that no individual would receive preferential treatment. However, the midfielder responded by starring at the subsequent World Cup, leading the team with seven goals as England finished in third place. Tuchel has since consistently selected him ahead of Morgan Rogers, cementing his role as the team's primary playmaker in the attacking midfield position.
The comprehensive win against Croatia featured contributions from across the attacking lineup. Captain Harry Kane scored twice to bring his career international tally to 89 goals, while Bukayo Saka also netted a brace and Anthony Gordon added a goal and an assist. When Kane was substituted during the latter stages of the match, Bellingham assumed the captain's armband, further underscoring his rising authority within the group.
Former England striker Ian Wright commended Bellingham's relentless energy and his ability to repeatedly drive forward into scoring positions. Tuchel acknowledged that the midfielder appears to have unlocked a new tier of performance, emphasizing that continuous progression remains essential to prevent opponents from catching up.
Attention now turns to upcoming fixtures as England prepares to face the Czech Republic at Wembley Stadium. That match could see Kane equal Peter Shilton's all-time appearance record for the England men's team, while Bellingham will look to maintain his scintillating form as a cornerstone of the national side's future.
Reporting based on coverage first published by BBC Sport. Read the original report at BBC Sport.
