In the unpredictable world of professional football, stories of redemption and delayed recognition are often the most compelling. Few narratives currently captivate quite like that of Ruben Loftus-Cheek, the imposing midfielder whose stellar performances for AC Milan have finally forced his way back into the England national squad after a remarkable seven-year hiatus. His return is not just a testament to his perseverance, but also a vindication of a talent long admired, perhaps even understated, by those who know him best.
A Coach`s Conviction: Tuchel`s Enduring Faith
Among those who have consistently championed Loftus-Cheek`s abilities is Thomas Tuchel, the esteemed German tactician who previously managed him at Chelsea. Tuchel, known for his incisive assessments, recently spoke with a characteristic blend of admiration and gentle frustration about his former player:
“It was always a pleasure [to work with him] and I’m very happy that I had the chance to call him up [to play for me]. He’s a very, very nice guy to be around, very friendly, very polite, good sense of humour, and he is full of quality. Sometimes I’m not sure if he is aware how good he is, how good he can be, but he fits in seamlessly because of his character and quality. He showed it straight away. He competes for a place in central midfield.”
This sentiment—that Loftus-Cheek might not fully comprehend the depths of his own capabilities—has long been a recurring theme in discussions about the midfielder. It hints at a rare combination of immense physical gifts and technical prowess, perhaps tempered by an understated confidence. Tuchel`s words serve as a potent reminder that raw talent, however evident to others, often requires a catalyst for its possessor to truly harness it.
The Italian Renaissance: Milan`s Masterstroke
The catalyst, it appears, was a strategic move to Serie A giants AC Milan in the summer of 2023. After a career at Chelsea marked by flashes of brilliance punctuated by frustrating injuries and inconsistent game time, the €18.9 million transfer offered a fresh start, a new stage, and an opportunity for a complete footballing rebirth. And what a rebirth it has been.
In the demanding tactical environment of Italian football, Loftus-Cheek has not merely survived; he has thrived. Adapting to the nuanced demands of the Rossoneri midfield, he has transformed into a dynamic box-to-box presence, showcasing his powerful dribbling, astute passing, and surprising goal-scoring ability. Despite battling a history of injury problems, his impact has been undeniable, contributing an impressive 11 goals and three assists across 71 competitive appearances for Milan. These statistics are not merely numbers; they represent a player finding his rhythm, his confidence, and his true footballing identity.
A Return to the Three Lions` Roar
The call-up to Gareth Southgate`s England squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Serbia (scheduled for Saturday and Tuesday, September 9, respectively) marks a significant milestone. His last senior cap for England was in a 3-0 friendly victory over the USA in November 2018. To bridge such a chasm of time and return to the international stage speaks volumes about his character and the undeniable quality he has displayed in Italy.
At 29 years old, Loftus-Cheek is no longer the raw, promising talent. He is a mature, experienced midfielder who has navigated the demanding landscape of both the Premier League and Serie A. His journey serves as a powerful reminder that a footballer`s career trajectory is rarely linear, often demanding a change of scenery or a profound personal awakening to unlock dormant potential.
What Lies Ahead?
As Ruben Loftus-Cheek prepares to don the Three Lions jersey once more, the footballing world watches with keen interest. His selection is not just a reward for past performances, but a potential turning point for England`s midfield options. With his unique blend of physicality, grace, and now, a renewed sense of purpose, he offers a different dimension. Whether he finally fully recognizes, as Tuchel suggests, “how good he is, how good he can be,” remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: the sleeping giant has awakened, and his roar from the heart of Milan echoes across the channels, all the way back to the heart of English football.
