Tuchel Apologises to Bellingham for “Repulsive” Comment, Calls It Poor Word Choice After England Loss

England manager Thomas Tuchel has publicly apologised to Jude Bellingham following controversial remarks he made about the Real Madrid midfielder’s on-pitch behaviour. Tuchel admitted that describing Bellingham’s actions as “repulsive” in a previous interview was a mistake and not reflective of his true intentions.

The comment, made after England’s 3-1 friendly defeat to Senegal in June, sparked backlash. Tuchel had initially said he admired the 22-year-old’s competitive spirit but noted that even his own mother found some of Bellingham’s antics “repulsive.”

On Friday, Tuchel addressed the controversy, taking full responsibility and clarifying the context in which the word was used. “I used this word unintentionally, just to make it very clear. I had no intention, there was no message, there was no hidden agenda,” he said.

“I fully understand it’s my responsibility that I created these headlines. I’m sorry for the upset and for the headlines that I created.”

The former Chelsea, PSG, and Bayern Munich boss admitted he should have handled the moment better, especially given his managerial experience. “I’m experienced enough, I should have known better and should have done better,” he acknowledged.

Tuchel further explained the circumstances that led to his poor word choice. “I thought I have a little bit more credit with you guys, that I do all this in my second language. I did it on the morning after a loss and not a lot of sleep. I did it in a live interview and I used the wrong word.”

He stressed that the use of the word “repulsive” was not what he intended to convey. “It’s my responsibility. I used the wrong word. I didn’t want to use this word. I used it. I created the opposite. It’s my responsibility.”

Tuchel confirmed that he reached out to Bellingham personally to clarify his remarks and apologise. “I made straight away contact with him, of course, and I got in touch with him straight away. Jude’s focus is now in his rehabilitation.”

Bellingham is currently recovering from shoulder surgery and has not been included in the England squad for the September World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Serbia.