Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has confirmed that forward Cole Palmer remains fully committed to representing England, despite a recent withdrawal from the national team’s Nations League campaign. Alonso said Palmer’s decision to miss the international break was driven by a lingering groin issue that had sidelined him for much of the previous season and was still affecting him during Chelsea’s loss to Brentford. The 24‑year‑old has already earned five caps for England, scoring in the Euro 2024 final, but his recent absence was “for genuine reasons,” the manager added.
Alonso explained that Palmer’s injury has been a long‑term concern. He has struggled with persistent pubalgia, which prevented him from being selected for the World Cup squad and caused him to miss the start of the Nations League. The Chelsea captain has been in better shape this season, having scored four goals in the Premier League, and Alonso noted that the extended break has helped him recover. “Now he’s fine,” Alonso said, stressing that the club and the national team both need him to be fully fit.
Thomas Tuchel, who has been critical of Palmer’s availability, expressed disappointment that the player missed the start of England’s campaign. Tuchel questioned whether Palmer was truly willing to be part of the squad, remarking that the young forward “misses too many opportunities.” With a crowded midfield and a tight schedule, it remains uncertain whether Tuchel will select Palmer for upcoming fixtures against Croatia and Spain.
Alonso dismissed criticism from pundits such as Piers Morgan, who labelled Palmer a “bottle job” for not playing international football. The Chelsea coach said he was unaware of the comment and the broadcaster, and reiterated that a player’s worth is judged by club performance and consistency. “When you show for your club that you are a top‑level player and you have regularity, normally it is the natural way that you are part of the national team,” Alonso said.
Chelsea will look to Palmer’s return for the home match against Bournemouth on Saturday, hoping he can contribute after a three‑game winless run. Alonso also expressed optimism about the recovery of teammates Reece James, Moisés Caicedo and Marco Palestra, who are expected to return from injury for the same fixture. The club’s focus remains on restoring full fitness to its key players ahead of the remainder of the Premier League season.