'That group didn't connect well': Jude Bellingham reflects on England's Euro 2024 struggles
New York, June 12
As he gears up for the FIFA World Cup 2026, England midfielder Jude Bellingham has admitted the national team struggled with off-field issues during UEFA Euro 2024, revealing that the squad lacked the togetherness needed despite reaching the final under former manager Gareth Southgate.
Reflecting on England's campaign in Germany, where they reached the final but came under scrutiny for a series of underwhelming performances, Bellingham said the atmosphere within the squad was not ideal.
"At the Euros, I think we got a few things wrong off the pitch. I don't feel the group connected as well as it could have for a number of reasons," Bellingham said while speaking to Lions' Den as quoted by Xinhua.
England arrived at the tournament among the favourites to lift the trophy, but often struggled to hit top form, leading to growing criticism even as results went their way.
"We were seen as one of two or three teams that could win it, but we weren't playing well, which doesn't help. So even when we were winning, we didn't get the feeling that we were as happy as we should be," he said.
The Real Madrid midfielder admitted that the memories of the tournament still leave him uncomfortable. "I still remember how I was feeling at the time. It always makes me feel a bit uncomfortable because it was such a bad situation," Bellingham added.
Now preparing for England's World Cup campaign under new head coach Thomas Tuchel, Bellingham is in contention for a starting role against Croatia on June 17 after impressing in Wednesday's warm-up win over Costa Rica.
The 22-year-old also spoke about his close friendship with Aston Villa midfielder Morgan Rogers, who is competing with him for a place in the side. "He is a top guy. He can get along with anyone and have conversations with anyone. He can be a bit loud. We have debates that turn into arguments a lot, but we get on like brothers, to be fair," Bellingham said.
While Tuchel initially viewed both players as contenders for the same position, Bellingham believes their versatility has increased their chances of featuring together.
"The manager has made it very clear a lot of the time that we are playing for the same position. I know that has eased up a bit more now that he sees me playing more positions and Morgs playing more positions, but I honestly have no ill feelings when he is playing, and I'm not playing," he added.
Meanwhile, Bellingham is expected to play a big role in England's FIFA World Cup campaign as the European nation looks to end their 60-year trophy drought.
— IANS
Reader Comments
This is refreshing honesty from Bellingham, but part of me wonders if he's deflecting blame from Southgate. England got lucky in knockout stages—penalties against Switzerland, last minute goals. They never looked convincing. I'm glad someone finally admits the dressing room wasn't right. Tuchel needs to build unity first, tactics second.
As someone who follows European football from India, I find this very relatable. Even in our office teams, when people don't gel together, performance drops. Bellingham's maturity to speak about this at 22 shows leadership. But I do wonder—if they reached the final despite this, what could they achieve with real unity? Maybe this World Cup! ✨
I've always thought England's problem is overhype. The media builds them up as favourites, and then the pressure crushes them. Bellingham admitting they didn't connect well is honest, but also shows a lack of leadership from senior players. Kane should have stepped up more. Still, I'm optimistic about Tuchel—he knows how to build a winning mentality from his Chelsea days.
Honestly, as an Indian football fan, I just want to see a good World Cup regardless of who wins. But England's struggles are predictable—too many egos, not enough team spirit. Bellingham and Foden both want to be the star, and it showed. Tuchel's job is tough. Also, it's funny how they're now looking at 2026 while we're just hoping to qualify! 😅
M Michael C Bellingham We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.