Chelsea forward Cole Palmer has withdrawn from England’s squad ahead of the September international break after picking up a minor muscle injury.
Palmer was included in Thomas Tuchel’s squad announced on September 18 for England’s UEFA Nations League matches. His call-up had marked a return to the national team after missing the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
However, the 24-year-old will no longer take part in the international fixtures as England’s medical team and Chelsea agreed to take a cautious approach to his recovery.
The injury is understood to be minor, but both club and country are keen to avoid any setback given Palmer’s recent fitness struggles.
The Chelsea attacker completed the full 90 minutes in his side’s 3-0 Premier League defeat to Brentford on Friday.
Despite that loss, Palmer has enjoyed a bright start to the new campaign, scoring four goals and providing two assists in seven appearances across all competitions.
His latest setback comes after an injury-plagued 2025-26 season, when a recurring groin problem limited him to just 24 Premier League starts.
That experience has made Chelsea more careful with the England international, who has previously spoken about his determination to stay fit throughout the season.
Palmer’s withdrawal is also a setback for Tuchel, who had hoped the attacking midfielder would play a leading role in England’s Nations League campaign after recalling him to the squad.
England are scheduled to face Spain at Wembley on September 26 before taking on Czechia and Croatia during the international window.