Jude Bellingham excluded from England’s squad due to injury recovery and lack of match fitness, despite being player of the year.

Jude Bellingham has been omitted from England’s October squad due to ongoing recovery from shoulder surgery and insufficient match rhythm, despite being named player of the year. Manager Thomas Tuchel cited squad continuity and recent strong performances in qualifying matches as key reasons, opting to retain players from the previous camp. Bellingham, who has played four games for Real Madrid since returning but started only one and hasn’t completed a full match, was fit but not deemed ready. Phil Foden and Jack Grealish were also left out due to form and fitness, not personal issues. Bukayo Saka returns from injury, while Cole Palmer, Noni Madueke, and Tino Livramento remain sidelined. Tuchel stressed decisions are based on performance and team cohesion, not sentiment.