Why did Cole Palmer withdraw from England squad for upcoming international break?
(Courtesy : Getty)
Chelsea forward was called up for Nations League games.
Thomas Tuchel called up Cole Palmer after he was controversially left out of the Three Lions’ World Cup roster. But the Chelsea star will miss England’s forthcoming Nations League matches due to a minor injury. Cole Palmer last appeared for England in a 1-0 friendly defeat to Japan in March 2026.
Tuchel had earlier stated that Palmer had a “point to prove” and needed to “step up” to “keep his shirt and justify the nomination.”
However, the Blues attacker will miss England’s long international break, which includes four games.
The Three Lions play World Cup champions Spain at Wembley Stadium on Saturday, September 26. They then go to the Czech Republic (September 29) and Croatia (October 3) before hosting the Czechs on October 6. Palmer’s absence follows after he played the entire game for Chelsea in their 3-0 loss at Brentford on Friday.
Cole Palmer withdraws from England squad due to minor injury
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After a summer off following his exclusion from World Cup rosters, he played in six of Chelsea’s seven games, playing full 90 minutes in five, scoring four goals and providing two assists. But he will now miss the international break due to a minor injury.
Cole Palmer was frustrated by a recurring groin injury in 2025-26 season.
Cole Palmer’s unwillingness to put his body at risk derives from a difficult 2025-26 season marred by thigh and hamstring injuries. Despite 34 appearances, including 24 Premier League starts, and 10 goals and one assist, but he failed to stay in top physical condition.
His recent success under Alonso proved to be a significant plus for the Blues, but his decision to miss England duty reflects a long-term plan to keep him fit. Palmer may have to wait a bit longer to solidify his spot in Tuchel’s starting XI, having scored only two goals in 14 senior international appearances.
Why did Cole Palmer withdraw from the England squad?
Due to fitness concerns.
When was the last time Palmer played for Three Lions?
This year in March.
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