Thomas Tuchel questions Cole Palmer’s desire to play for England

Wembley Stadium

Thomas Tuchel has cast major doubt over Cole Palmer’s international future after questioning the Chelsea forward’s eagerness to represent his country.

The 24-year-old pulled out of the latest England squad ahead of Saturday’s Nations League clash against Spain at Wembley. It is the second time Palmer has withdrawn since Tuchel took charge at the start of 2025.

When it was suggested to the England manager that the playmaker does not seem desperate to play for the Three Lions, he did not hold back.

Speaking to reporters ahead of the Spain match, Tuchel said:

“It’s hard to argue against what you’re saying.”

A frustrating pattern of absences

Palmer has only earned 14 caps for his country and missed out on the World Cup squad in the summer following a campaign disrupted by fitness problems. Although he started this season in excellent form for Chelsea, scoring four times in seven matches, a recurring muscular problem has halted his progress.

Tuchel expressed clear irritation at the attacker’s inability to remain fit for international duty, pointing out that these constant setbacks prevent him from securing a regular starting role.

Discussing the forward’s repeated fitness issues, Tuchel said:

“He misses way too many camps with injuries, and I only want to rely on what I witness within my team, and for that you have to be in camp.”

The German manager also dismissed the idea of bringing the injured Chelsea star along just to foster team spirit and build relationships with the rest of the squad.

Explaining why he did not ask the Chelsea star to join up with the squad anyway, Tuchel said:

“To bring someone and take away capacity from our physios, it’s not helpful.”

Alternative options ready to step up

While Palmer remains in London, other players have shown immense desire to be involved. Morgan Gibbs-White was called up as a replacement, willingly cutting short a holiday in Dubai after just one day to join the squad.

Tuchel was quick to praise the attitude of those who have reported for duty, contrasting them with the absent Chelsea playmaker.

Highlighting the players who did make the squad, Tuchel said:

“All in camp, all desperate to be here, all available and all ready to go.”

The manager listed Jude Bellingham, Morgan Rogers, and Eberechi Eze alongside Gibbs-White as players who are fully committed to the cause.

Several other high-profile players also pulled out of the squad, including Declan Rice, Kobbie Mainoo, Marcus Rashford, and Tino Livramento. However, Tuchel defended those decisions, explaining that he trusts the players and understands they are playing through genuine discomfort for their clubs.

Palmer remains focused on his goals

Despite the manager’s public criticisms, those close to Palmer insist that his dedication to both club and country remains entirely unaffected. Reports suggest the former Manchester City player is determined to prove his worth and secure cementing his place in the side before Euro 2028.

Speculation has also linked the 24-year-old with a potential transfer to Manchester United, with suggestions he might prefer a return to the north of England. However, sources close to the player clarify that he remains completely focused on his current role with Chelsea.

England captain Harry Kane also defended his teammates, stating that every player feels immense pride representing the national team, though individual physical and mental circumstances must always be managed.