Jude Bellingham’s post-match comments following England’s draw with Slovakia in the Euros were notable, as he quoted Theodore Roosevelt’s famous ‘Man in the Arena’ speech. However, it’s worth noting that Bellingham seems overly preoccupied with criticism of England’s campaign, seeking vindication as much as victory. This article reflects on how Bellingham’s sensitivity to critique contrasts with the England team’s experience during the 1990 Italy World Cup, where manager Bobby Robson faced intense media scrutiny and the team faced negative press coverage. It highlights how the current England squad, including Bellingham, has been largely shielded from such intense media pressure and how their self-absorption and thin skins differ from the squad in 1990, who had a more light-hearted and resilient attitude.

Bellingham’s moment of brilliance against Slovakia was overshadowed by his post-match comments, which suggested a player more concerned with silencing critics than celebrating a crucial goal.

Bellingham’s recent comments and behavior suggest he feels wronged by criticism, despite the pre-tournament hype surrounding him.

Bellingham’s explanation for his controversial goal celebration on Sunday was that it was an “inside joke” with friends. However, his refusal to elaborate further has left a negative impression, particularly on the staff of Slovakia, the world’s 45th-ranked nation, who felt the gesture was directed at them. This incident adds to the perception that Bellingham carries himself with a sense of superiority, in contrast to the modesty and likability that Gareth Southgate has instilled in the England team.

Bellingham’s proclamation of “Who else? Who else?” after his equalizer against Slovakia drew comparisons to Cristiano Ronaldo, and it’s worth asking if we would be as accepting of such behavior from the Portuguese star. The article also highlights how Bellingham’s recent performances and body language have fallen short of expectations, with Wayne Rooney noting his frustration with teammates. This is a stark contrast to the player who, before the tournament, was widely praised and expected to be a pivotal figure for England.

The article then delves into the media environment surrounding the England team during the 1990 World Cup in Italy. Manager Bobby Robson faced intense criticism and scrutiny from the British tabloids, with one newspaper declaring him “A Liar, A Cheat… and not fit to lead England.” Despite this, the squad maintained a light-hearted attitude, with players like Steve McMahon publicly ripping up newspapers and the team adopting an “us against them” mentality. The squad laughed off the negative press, displaying thicker skins and less self-absorption than the current squad.

England’s 1990 World Cup campaign in Italy was marked by intense media scrutiny, with manager Bobby Robson facing heavy criticism from the British tabloids.

Paul Gascoigne was the heart and soul of England’s 1990 World Cup team, bringing joy and a sense of lightness to the squad.

The article highlights the contrasting atmospheres between the 1990 and 2024 squads, with the former facing a hostile media environment and the latter benefiting from more empathetic and encouraging coverage. Despite the challenges, England’s 1990 campaign ended in a semi-final defeat to Germany, a performance that rekindled the country’s love affair with football and earned Robson redemption. The article concludes with a reflection on how Bellingham could benefit from learning to embrace the fans’ expectations and channel his talent in a way that inspires and delights, rather than seeking personal vindication.

Bellingham’s sensitivity to criticism is in stark contrast to the England squad of 1990, who faced intense media pressure but maintained a resilient and light-hearted attitude.

England’s underwhelming performances at Euro 2024 are a concern, but the team can take solace in the fact that past displays don’t determine tournament outcomes.

The article concludes with a reflection on how England’s performances at Euro 2024 have been underwhelming, but the team can take solace in the fact that the quality of previous displays doesn’t matter in tournament football. It highlights how England’s semi-final defeat to Germany in 1990, despite a lackluster performance overall, remains one of the country’s best showings on the international stage outside of their 1966 World Cup victory.