Thomas Tuchel Apologises To Jude Bellingham Over ‘Repulsive’ Behaviour Comment

‎Thomas Tuchel has issued an apology to Jude Bellingham, clarifying that there was “no hidden agenda” behind his comments in which he described some of the midfielder’s on-field behaviour as “repulsive.”

‎While Bellingham’s fiery edge has been key to his rapid rise, it has also sparked debates over his temperament.

‎Tuchel said in an interview the day after England’s 3-1 friendly loss to Senegal in June that he loved Bellingham’s “fire” but revealed his mother found some of the midfielder’s on-field behaviour “repulsive”.

‎The German coach’s comments caused controversy and he has apologised to the Real Madrid star, who is absent from the squad for September’s World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Serbia after shoulder surgery.

‎“I used this word unintentionally, just to make it very clear,” Tuchel said.

‎“I had no intention, there was no message, there was no hidden agenda. I fully understand it’s my responsibility to create these headlines. I’m sorry for the upset and for the headlines that I created.

‎“I’m experienced enough, I should have known better and should have done better. I thought I had 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. 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. I made contact with him straight away, of course, and I got in touch with him straight away. Jude’s focus is now on his rehabilitation.”