Jude Bellingham benched as England lose third-place play-off

England suffered a 3-2 defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 third-place play-off on 10 July 2024, with Jude Bellingham left out of Gareth Southgate’s matchday squad entirely.

What happened?

Southgate made nine changes to his starting XI for the dead-rubber clash in Leipzig, Germany. Bellingham, who had started England’s previous two knockout games, was among those dropped. The hosts led twice through goals from Dani Olmo and Rodri before a late Harry Kane double levelled the score. Rodri’s 85th-minute winner sealed Spain’s 3-2 victory.

Why it matters for Jude Bellingham

At 20 years old, Bellingham arrived at Euro 2024 as England’s breakout star. He scored twice in the group stage and played every minute of the knockout rounds before the final. His exclusion from the play-off lineup marked a sharp shift in Southgate’s approach. The manager cited squad rotation after a gruelling tournament, but the move underlined England’s depth concerns.

What comes next?

Bellingham will return to Real Madrid for pre-season as England plot their next steps. Southgate’s future hangs in the balance, with a new manager likely to take charge before Euro 2028. The play-off loss caps a mixed tournament for England, who bowed out with a record of two wins and two defeats. Spain, meanwhile, ended their campaign on a high note with their first bronze-medal finish at a major tournament since 2013.

Reaction and fallout

Bellingham has not publicly commented on his benching. Southgate defended his call, telling reporters: “We’ve got to look ahead.” Spain’s Rodri, the play-off’s standout performer, said his side showed “character” after twice coming from behind. The result leaves England searching for answers ahead of their next competitive cycle.