Jude Bellingham Takes No. 10 as England Reveals World Cup Squad Numbers
England has officially announced its squad numbers for the upcoming World Cup, sparking discussions about manager Thomas Tuchel's starting lineup strategy. Jude Bellingham of Real Madrid has been assigned the prestigious No. 10 shirt, raising questions about his role as the central attacking player, especially with competition from Morgan Rogers of Aston Villa, who wears No. 17. In addition, Nico O'Reilly from Manchester City takes the No. 3, indicating his likely position as the first-choice left-back. Dan Burn from Newcastle will wear No. 15, providing further depth in the left-back area. Elliott Anderson, a rising star for Tuchel, has secured the No. 8 shirt, signaling his importance in the squad. Meanwhile, Jordan Henderson from Brentford, previously associated with the No. 8 jersey, will don No. 14, reminiscent of his successful tenure at Liverpool. The central defense appears set with John Stones and Marc Guehi wearing No. 5 and No. 6, respectively, suggesting they will form the primary defensive partnership. Up front, Marcus Rashford, having spent the season at Barcelona, is assigned the No. 11 shirt, putting him ahead of new Barca recruit Anthony Gordon, who will wear No. 18. However, a notable point of interest arises with Reece James, who will wear No. 24, likely securing his spot as the first-choice right-back, mirroring his position at Chelsea.
Source: BBC Sport - 2026-06-02