Gary Neville Makes Demand Regarding Jude Bellingham Ahead of 2026 World Cup

Gary Neville is not buying the idea that Jude Bellingham should be fighting for his place in England's starting XI. With the FIFA World Cup approaching, England national team manager Thomas Tuchel has made it clear that Bellingham is not an automatic starter and still has to earn his role.

Neville, however, sees it very differently. The former England international believes Bellingham is simply too important to leave out, and he has made it clear that the Real Madrid midfielder should be in the team when the tournament begins.

Neville made his view clear while discussing the choice between Bellingham and Morgan Rogers, who both got minutes in England's warm-up match against New Zealand.

Rogers has done plenty to strengthen his case under Tuchel. He has been regularly involved, offers flexibility across attacking positions, and is coming off a strong season with Aston Villa. Neville also made sure to praise him, saying he is a big fan of the Villa attacker. But when it comes to Bellingham, Neville sees a different level of player.

"I love Morgan Rogers, love him," Neville said. "But let's be clear, Jude Bellingham is not a sub. He's a star. That's it. He's a star."

Gary Neville says Jude Bellingham has to start for England at the World Cup pic.twitter.com/ys7eIwysu9

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Bellingham came on at halftime against New Zealand and immediately added energy, control, and physical presence. He completed every pass he attempted and even took the captain's armband, which only added more fuel to the discussion around his role.

Tuchel has also spoken positively about Bellingham's recent condition, saying he looks fresh, sharp, and full of energy after returning from injury.

Still, England's midfield picture is not simple. Neville believes Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson will also have a massive job to do, especially when it comes to protecting the defense. For him, that area could decide how far England go at the World Cup.

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This story was originally published June 8, 2026 at 11:47 AM.