Cole Palmer is showing a completely different image compared to last season. The revived form at Chelsea helps this midfielder return to the England national team, but Thomas Tuchel also quickly set clear requirements for the 24-year-old player.
Palmer has continuously made his mark since the beginning of the season. He made a delicate touch to make Joao Pedro score against Fulham, scored himself against Brighton and had an assist for Joao Pedro in the match against Hull.
These performances make people question the decision not to call up Palmer to the 2026 World Cup. However, looking back at last season, Tuchel's choice is based on the actual form of the Chelsea midfielder.
Palmer had 42 direct contributions to Chelsea's goals in the 2023-2024 season and 32 in the 2024-2025 season. This number dropped sharply to 14 in the 2025-2026 season, of which only 2 contributions were in the last 12 matches of the season.
A groin injury also significantly affected Palmer's performance. He could not maintain his best condition and faced many difficulties in regaining his inherent sharpness.
During the England national team training camp in March, Tuchel once gave Palmer the opportunity to prove his ability. However, the Chelsea midfielder played lackluster in the 0-1 defeat to Japan at Wembley. At that time, Palmer lacked confidence and could not show his ability to control the ball and create breakthroughs.
Tuchel then decided not to bring Palmer to the World Cup. When asked if he regretted this choice, he affirmed no. The England coach said he had spent a lot of time working with the selected players and completely believed in his decision.
Now, Palmer has returned to the England national team for matches against Spain, Croatia and the Czech Republic in the Nations League 2026-2027. Tuchel himself also admitted that the Chelsea midfielder has regained his peak form.
He has regained his peak form. He has assists and scores decisive goals. That's why he is in the squad, but I think he still has something to prove" - Tuchel said.
Palmer's confidence has also returned. He moves flexibly, often looking for space between lines and is capable of eliminating opposing defenders with delicate handling.
Palmer's strength lies in his ability to make quick decisions in tight spaces. He is not a typical number 10 with characteristic qualities, but creativity and handling situations can bring a different option for the "Three Lions" attack.
To return to the national team, Palmer has to compete with many players. Phil Foden was not called up despite having a pretty good start to the season. Joshua King is also being considered, while Morgan Gibbs-White continues to be not on the list.
Tuchel admitted Gibbs-White was very close to being chosen. However, he does not want to call up too many players to play in the number 10 position.
Palmer's return therefore comes with a clear requirement. Tuchel emphasized that being called up is just the beginning. Palmer needs to maintain his form at club level and show that in the England national team jersey.
After 14 appearances for the England national team, Palmer has only scored 2 goals and had 1 assist. He has started 6 times, but this return brings another opportunity.
