Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Ruben Amorim Clash Over England Hopes: ‘He Doesn’t Believe He Can Play’

FolioPitch.com – 22 October 2026 | In a candid pre-match press conference ahead of AC Milan‘s Europa League clash with Bournemouth, midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek and head coach Ruben Amorim offered contrasting views on the Englishman’s international future. The exchange, which unfolded on Wednesday evening, highlighted a fundamental disagreement: Loftus-Cheek and Amorim disagree over England hopes, with the coach insisting ‘he doesn’t believe he can play’ for the Three Lions despite possessing the talent to represent any national team.

Loftus-Cheek, who has been plying his trade in Serie A for three years, was asked by British reporters whether he harbours ambitions of a recall to the England squad. His response was measured but revealing: “Honestly, it’s not at the forefront of my mind. I think Milan deserves all my concentration. Right now we’re in a period with so many games, we’re a big club and we have the pressure to win.” He added that if he continues to perform well, “England opportunities will come,” but emphasised his full focus remains on AC Milan.

Amorim, however, was quick to interject, offering a psychological assessment of his player’s mindset. “First of all I want to address this question about Ruben,” the coach said. “The problem is that he doesn’t believe that he can play for his national team and I heard that in his voice, but he has the talent to do that.” Pointing to his temple, Amorim continued: “Maybe the problem is more here than it is in his body and his ability. So I really believe that if he takes that out of his head, he can play in every national team because he’s a very talented boy.”

The public nature of Loftus-Cheek and Amorim disagree over England hopes He doesn t believe he can play was striking, as it laid bare the midfielder’s self-doubt and his coach’s unwavering belief in his potential. Amorim, who has been linked with a move to Manchester United but reaffirmed his commitment to Milan, stressed that Loftus-Cheek is still young enough to fulfil his international ambitions. “He needs to give that step, and he’s still young. People don’t understand that he can play for a while. I truly believe that he can be that type of player.”

The 30-year-old midfielder, who earned his last England cap in a friendly against Wales in October 2025, has enjoyed a renaissance in Italy. Reflecting on his journey, he said: “I think I’ve evolved as a player and as a human being as well. Firstly as a player, the league is different and you have to adapt to the league and adapt to a football that maybe you couldn’t play or is not as effective here in Italy as it is in England, but I’ve enjoyed it.” He also spoke about the personal growth that comes with moving abroad: “As a human being, going to a different country when many Englishmen haven’t done that in the past and learning a new language, different culture, different way of life, in that sense of growing as a human being.” Amorim lightened the mood by adding, “And the food is best.”

Loftus-Cheek also addressed his role as a senior figure in the Milan dressing room, acknowledging the responsibility that comes with experience. “I feel the responsibility on the pitch and in the squad to bring that experience. I think these are the games where you need to bring that because it’s going to be very difficult when the atmosphere is hostile and it’s a big game, especially for us and for Bournemouth, their emotional attachment to the game. I do want to help the team in that way as much as possible.”

The midfielder’s performances for Milan have been impressive, and his versatility and physicality have made him a key component of Amorim’s midfield. Yet, the England question lingers. The disagreement between Loftus-Cheek and Amorim over England hopes He doesn t believe he can play is not just about footballing ability but about mentality. While Loftus-Cheek prefers to deflect attention onto his club duties, Amorim sees a player who could easily slot into the national setup if only he believed in himself.

The timing of the exchange is significant, with Euro 2028 on the horizon and England manager Thomas Tuchel likely monitoring the form of eligible players abroad. Loftus-Cheek’s experience in Serie A, combined with his technical and physical attributes, could offer a different dimension to the Three Lions’ midfield. However, as Amorim pointed out, the first step is for the player to overcome his own doubts.

For now, Loftus-Cheek remains focused on Milan’s Europa League campaign and their push for domestic success. But the debate over his international future is unlikely to fade, especially with Amorim publicly championing his cause. The coach’s words may serve as a catalyst for Loftus-Cheek to reassess his own potential, and if he does, the England call-up he seemingly doubts could become a reality.

In conclusion, the contrasting perspectives of Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Ruben Amorim on the midfielder’s England prospects reveal a fascinating psychological battle. While the player remains noncommittal and focused on club matters, his coach is adamant that self-belief is the only barrier to international recognition. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on whether Loftus-Cheek can silence his inner critic and prove Amorim right — that he can indeed play for any national team, including England.