During the announcement of the England squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Serbia, Tuchel addressed his controversial statement about Bellingham. "I inadvertently used that word," he said. "I want to clarify that there was no hidden message or intent behind it. I take full responsibility for the headlines I caused. I apologize for any offense taken."

Tuchel during a press conference at Wembley Stadium, London, England, 29/8/2025. Photo: Reuters

Tuchel during a press conference at Wembley Stadium, London, England, 29/8/2025. Photo: Reuters

Tuchel also revealed that he contacted Bellingham immediately after his comments became a media focal point. The German coach stated that he and Bellingham had resolved the issue, although he didn't disclose details about their current relationship or the content of their conversation.

"I'm experienced enough to know I should have done better," Tuchel explained. "I think I deserved a little more understanding as English is my second language. The statement was made the morning after a defeat, when I was sleep-deprived and in a live interview. I used the wrong word. It's my responsibility. I didn't mean to use that word and it caused a misunderstanding."

The incident occurred over two months ago, in an interview with talkSPORT after a friendly loss to Senegal. Tuchel praised Bellingham's fighting spirit and desire to win, but also mentioned that his mother sometimes found the Real Madrid star's on-field behavior "disgusting".

In that match against Senegal, Bellingham scored an equalizer in the 85th minute, but it was disallowed due to Levi Colwill's earlier handball. This, coupled with the team conceding a goal in stoppage time and losing 3-1, led to Bellingham's outburst. He vented his frustration on the ball, kicked over a water bottle, and argued with referee Stephanie Frappart before captain Harry Kane intervened.

The England squad for the upcoming matches has been reduced to 24 players, compared to the usual 26, with the surprising omission of Trent Alexander-Arnold. Bellingham is also absent due to shoulder surgery that will keep him sidelined until October.

Compiled by Ha Phuong