Jude Bellingham’s support helps Jobe earn England call-up as Tuchel relationship improves
Thomas Tuchel has described his relationship with Jude Bellingham as a journey of “ups and downs” but says the pair are now in an excellent place. The England manager also revealed that the Real Madrid midfielder repeatedly urged him to pay attention to his younger brother, Jobe—a recommendation that has helped bring the siblings closer to a shared international milestone.
Jobe, captain of England’s Under-21 side, is among the most notable additions to Tuchel’s squad for the Nations League matches against Croatia and Spain. His first senior call-up reflects his rapid progress and gives him the chance to join Jude in the national team. If both feature together, they will become the first brothers to play for England at senior level since Gary and Phil Neville did so in 2007.
A long-held Bellingham family dream
The possibility of sharing the pitch for England has special meaning for the Bellinghams. Jude has previously described playing alongside his younger brother as “the biggest dream of his life.” Tuchel said he remembered discussing that ambition with Jude during his first England training camp, when the coach acknowledged how significant the moment would be if it eventually arrived.
That prospect now feels much closer. Jobe’s performances have strengthened his case for senior recognition, while Jude has made sure his manager knew what his brother could offer. Speaking to ESPN, Tuchel recalled the midfielder’s repeated encouragement: “We spoke about his brother because I knew very well that this was his constant dream. Jude would keep telling me: watch him, watch him, he is excellent and he can get here, and I would always reply: yes, yes, we are already watching him.”
Jude’s advocacy may have helped keep Jobe firmly on the coaching staff’s radar, but the call-up also represents a reward for the younger midfielder’s own development. A place in the squad does not guarantee a debut, and the step from Under-21 football to the senior team brings new demands. Still, training alongside established internationals offers Jobe a valuable opportunity to show that he can adapt to the pace, pressure and tactical detail of top-level international football.
Tuchel and Jude move beyond earlier tension
The selection also highlights the progress in Tuchel’s relationship with Jude. Their connection has attracted attention since the German coach took charge, with reports of friction occasionally overshadowing the midfielder’s performances. Tuchel previously apologised after comments about Jude’s conduct on the pitch, saying the player’s mother had found some of his behaviour “shocking.”
There were questions about whether that episode had left a lasting rift, including during England’s run to World Cup bronze. Tuchel now says the difficult moments have passed. “The relationship saw some ups and downs of course, but we are now in an excellent place,” he said.
The manager praised Jude as a “top-class and highly influential player” and said he enjoys coaching him. He added that Jude’s performances suggest the midfielder feels comfortable in the team, pointing to his commitment and the happiness he has shown when joining the England camp.
Jude has also received significant recognition under Tuchel, having been named England’s best player twice since the coach took charge. That form matters not only for the national team’s immediate ambitions but also for the balance of the squad: Jude can influence matches through his energy, technical quality and ability to contribute in different areas of midfield. A settled relationship with the manager gives both player and team a stronger foundation as the Nations League campaign reaches a decisive stage.
England’s Nations League position and what comes next
England sit second in League A, Group Three, behind Spain, with three wins and one defeat. The final group fixtures are against Croatia on November 13 and Spain on November 16. One point from those two matches would be enough to secure a place in the quarter-finals, although a stronger finish could improve England’s position and provide a confidence boost before the knockout rounds.
The quarter-finals are scheduled to be played over two legs next March, with the Nations League finals following in June. England’s immediate priority is to confirm qualification, but Tuchel must also assess his options and build momentum. The Croatia and Spain fixtures will offer a demanding test, particularly against opponents capable of controlling possession and punishing mistakes.
For Jobe, the call-up adds another compelling storyline to those matches. His inclusion gives Tuchel a chance to evaluate a young midfielder in the senior environment, while the possibility of a debut alongside Jude would turn a family ambition into an England moment. Whether the brothers share the field immediately or have to wait, their presence in the same squad is already a landmark for the family.
Football prediction: England face a crucial test
Any football prediction for England’s final group games must account for the quality of their opponents and the importance of the points on offer. Spain are the group leaders, while Croatia bring experience and competitive resilience. England’s current position gives them a degree of control, but Tuchel will want his side to approach both matches with the intensity required to avoid leaving qualification to chance.
Jude’s influence is likely to remain central, while Jobe’s involvement could add fresh energy and further competition in midfield. The younger Bellingham may not be expected to carry the same responsibility as his brother, but his call-up gives him a chance to make an impression and learn from the senior group. For England supporters, the prospect of seeing the pair play together offers an emotional subplot to a campaign with real competitive stakes.
Tuchel’s comments suggest that the focus has shifted from past disagreements to shared objectives. Jude is performing at a high level, his relationship with the manager appears stronger, and Jobe has earned his opportunity through steady progress. If England secure the points they need, the Nations League campaign could provide both brothers with a memorable stage—and give Tuchel another reason to believe his squad is moving in the right direction.
