Cole Palmer has been left out of Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the final two Nations League fixtures of 2026, despite being available for selection.
The Chelsea playmaker will miss the meeting with Croatia at Wembley on 12 November and England’s trip to face Spain in Madrid three days later. His omission comes after he withdrew from the previous international camp with a minor muscular problem.
Cole Palmer’s England omission is a selection decision
Palmer is understood to be fit enough to play for Chelsea, meaning his latest absence from the England squad is understood to be a decision made by Tuchel rather than one forced by injury.
The decision is notable given the 24-year-old’s recent return to form at club level. Since recovering, Palmer has registered three goals and an assist, including a Champions League goal in Prague.
Tuchel recalled Palmer in September after he had been left out of England’s World Cup squad, but the midfielder subsequently withdrew from that camp. He also missed the October international break.
The England manager has previously described Palmer’s withdrawal as another “missed opportunity”, while stressing that players need to be physically present at camp if they are to impress him properly.
That backdrop adds significance to the latest England squad decision. Palmer’s ability to create chances, score from midfield and influence tight matches is not in question, but his availability has become an important part of his international prospects.
Palmer’s omission leaves him needing to establish greater consistency and ensure he is available for England camps if he is to become a regular under Tuchel.
England still have a place in the Nations League knockout rounds at stake when they take on Croatia and Spain. For Palmer, the latest selection decision suggests that strong performances for Chelsea alone may not be enough to secure his return to the national team.
