Tuchel explains what makes Bellingham even better.

Jude Bellingham produced another impressive performance against Spain, and Thomas Tuchel believes the Real Madrid midfielder’s aggressive character is one of the reasons he performs at such a high level.

Despite England’s 3-2 defeat to Spain at Wembley, Bellingham once again stood out for the Three Lions. Playing as a number 10 with plenty of freedom, the Real Madrid star completed the full 90 minutes, provided an assist and created five chances for his teammates.

After already establishing himself as one of England’s most important players during the World Cup alongside Harry Kane, Bellingham has continued to play a major role for his national team. According to Tuchel, his personality and competitive intensity are a key part of what makes him so effective.

The England manager pointed to Bellingham’s confrontation with Marc Cucurella during the game against Spain as a perfect example.

The two players know each other well from Real Madrid, but once they step onto the pitch as opponents, friendship appears to be temporarily forgotten.

“It is better when he plays with a little bit of anger. That is what he likes. I think sometimes he looks for those moments to light his fire,” Tuchel explained during his press conference ahead of England’s match against the Czech Republic on Tuesday.

For Bellingham, however, the incident was already forgotten once the final whistle was blown.

During the 90 minutes, Tuchel knows exactly what kind of player he has: someone who is completely focused on winning, regardless of who is standing in front of him.

“I think he does not know any teammates when he is with the national team. He wants to win. He does not know any teammates,” Tuchel joked.

“He remains friends with them, of course, but not during those 90 minutes.”

That mentality has become one of Bellingham’s defining characteristics. Since joining Real Madrid, the midfielder has regularly shown his competitive edge in major matches, combining technical quality with physical intensity and a strong desire to influence games.

🚨 JUST IN: Real Madrid and Jude Bellingham have STARTED TALKS for a RENEWAL! @FabrizioRomano pic.twitter.com/x73ADNdRuO

— Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) September 29, 2026

Against Spain, that approach was once again visible. Bellingham constantly looked to receive the ball between the lines, create opportunities and push England forward, even as the Three Lions struggled to contain Spain.

The question now is whether he will feature again against the Czech Republic.

Tuchel would obviously like to have one of his key midfielders available, but the England manager made it clear that he will not take any unnecessary risks with the Real Madrid star.

“I would love to have him on the pitch four times,” Tuchel said.

“But we will have to speak with the physiotherapists. We are not going to put Jude in danger.”

With a demanding schedule ahead for both club and country, England’s medical staff will carefully assess Bellingham’s condition before making a final decision.

Whether he starts or is rested, one thing appears certain: Tuchel has no intention of changing the competitive fire that has become such an important part of Bellingham’s game.