The England team cannot do without Bellingham.

The biggest question facing England ahead of next year's World Cup isn't about the defense or Harry Kane's role, but rather about Jude Bellingham's form.

Bellingham is a rare game-changer for the England team.

According to Arsenal legend Perry Groves, without the Real Madrid star, England's chances of winning the World Cup are almost zero. At 22, Bellingham is considered one of the world's best midfielders. He not only brings creativity, explosiveness, and speed, but also leadership qualities that help balance the midfield.

Groves frankly stated that, along with Declan Rice and Harry Kane, Bellingham formed a "golden trio" that any national team would dream of. If just one of them were absent, England would immediately lose their competitive edge for the title.

The facts partly prove this. In a World Cup 2026 qualifying match, when Bellingham was absent due to shoulder surgery, England played poorly and only won 2-0 against Andorra in a lackluster performance. His replacement, Eberechi Eze, failed to make an impact and was even criticized by coach Thomas Tuchel after the match.

England need moments from Bellingham.

Bellingham is not only under scrutiny on the pitch but also for off-field issues. His father, Mark Bellingham, recently caused controversy when he confronted Dortmund's sporting director about his youngest son, Jobe, being substituted early.

The incident was dubbed "Mark Bellingham's dark side" by the media and was believed to have negatively impacted the England dressing room through its effect on his son.

Furthermore, Jude is the only England star to be criticized for refusing to speak to the press beyond his contractual obligations. This disparity is believed to have created a rift within the team.

Even former England manager Stuart Pearce suggested Bellingham should be dropped, saying: “Right now, we think dropping Jude Bellingham from the team would be ridiculous. But for the long-term good of the team, if it’s the right thing to do, then it should always be done.”

Nevertheless, Groves believes the players will still accept Bellingham because he is so outstanding, "world-class," and indispensable to any plan. For England, the benefits of Jude Bellingham are obvious. When he is in top form, combined with Kane and Rice, the English team can challenge any opponent. But without Bellingham, Groves emphasizes: "We have no chance of winning the championship."

Source: https://znews.vn/tuyen-anh-khong-the-thieu-bellingham-post1583636.html