Jude Bellingham is not playing for England in the October 2025 international break primarily due to a lack of match fitness and rhythm. England manager Thomas Tuchel cited that Bellingham, who underwent shoulder surgery over the summer, has only recently returned to play for Real Madrid this season but has started just one match and not completed a full 90 minutes yet. Tuchel emphasized that Bellingham deserves to be in the squad but needs time to regain full fitness and match sharpness before rejoining international duty. Bellingham's absence is viewed as a precaution to allow him to build up his form ahead of more critical World Cup qualifiers later in the year. Tuchel also mentioned that no player is guaranteed a spot and decisions are based on the current condition and rhythm of players, with the October schedule including a friendly and a qualifier against less challenging opposition. Bellingham is expected to have opportunities to play for England again once fully ready.