Not Appearing at the 2026 World Cup, Cole Palmer is Just Getting Harder

Cole Palmer wants to work hard to make the England squad for the upcoming World Cup (Instagram/@chelseafc).

JAKARTA - Cole Palmer said he did watch England's matches at the 2026 World Cup after his name was not included in the 26-man squad - but fell asleep during the break against Mexico.

The 24-year-old was one of the biggest surprises not to be called up by Thomas Tuchel for the tournament in North America.

This gave the Chelsea playmaker the much-needed rest after a long but injury-plagued 2025/2026 season. He used it to support his country on vacation.

"Obviously I'm on holiday. It's a bit crazy in North America. So, it's a bit difficult, but I do watch," said Palmer.

Unfortunately, he couldn't stay awake to witness England's biggest win in the tournament, a dramatic 3-2 victory in the last 16 with 10 players against Mexico at the Estadio Azteca. The match started at 2am UK time after a storm caused the match to be delayed by an hour.

"I watched it (England vs Mexico), but I fell asleep at halftime," said Palmer, who ended with a laugh at Chelsea's pre-season tour press conference.

After missing out on his first World Cup, Palmer said he would use it as extra motivation for the upcoming season.

"Of course, if someone says that you are basically not good enough to be in the squad, then you will try harder," he said.

England was finally eliminated in the semifinals by Argentina. The Three Lions had to settle for a bronze medal after defeating France in the third place match.

Meanwhile, Palmer is preparing for a new season under Xabi Alonso at Chelsea.