Ex-Brighton man at the centre of World Cup semi-final altercation with Jude Bellingham
England midfielder Jude Bellingham appeared to strike the back of Argentina player Valentin Barco’s head after the World Cup semi-final defeat in Atlanta.
Barco was an unused substitute but had run onto the field in celebration following Enzo Fernandez’s equaliser, pumping his fists as he ran along the 18-yard line and earning a shove on his way from England defender John Stones.
Bellingham approached Barco after the match had ended as the player celebrated with a group of team-mates after the match and appeared to slap the back of his head.
The former Brighton player then turned to confront his opponent before the pair were broken up.
It remains to be seen whether FIFA’s disciplinary committee will take any action on Bellingham that would result in him being suspended for the third-place match against France in Miami on Saturday.
Barco joined Brighton from Boca Juniors in 2024 for around £10m and made just seven appearances for the Seagulls. The Argentine had an unsuccessful loan at Serie A club Seville before kick-starting his career at Strasbourg.
He made a permanent move to the French outfit - Chelsea’s BlueCo sister club - in 2025 for around £10m and is expected to be part of Xabi Alonso's plans for Chelsea this coming season.
Tuchel to stay with England
Meanwhile, Under-fire Thomas Tuchel retains the Football Association’s backing after England’s disappointing World Cup semi-final loss to Argentina and looks set to stay on as manager for Euro 2028.
Speaking after the Argentina loss, the head coach said: “I have a contract until the home Euros and I’m looking forward to that even like now it is difficult to look that far ahead.”
England flew back to their Kansas City base after Wednesday’s agonising loss in Georgia, where FA chief executive Mark Bullingham praised Tuchel.
“It is heartbreaking to be so close,” he said. “The players and Thomas gave it everything today and the squad, coaches and staff could not have worked harder during the tournament.
“I would like to thank them all – and also give my heartfelt thanks to our wonderful fans here in the USA and at home. We felt your support every step of the way and we are all so disappointed not to go further.”
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