Time can move very fast in football, and the expected omissions of Cole Palmer and Phil Foden from England’s World Cup squad are testimony to that.
Two years ago it would have been unthinkable that the pair could be left out.
Foden started the Euro 2024 final defeat by Spain, Palmer came off the bench and scored as the future of the Three Lions.
From Manchester City Academy to World Cup Uncertainty
Two players progressed through the Manchester City academy together, a year apart, destined to be crucial members of the England squad which would head to the United States in 2026.
Foden, an attacking midfielder who Pep Guardiola made a star, and Palmer, who had to leave Etihad Stadium for Chelsea to make his mark.
Now their paths converge again, but as players omitted from England’s World Cup squad.
Palmer had been the new kid on the block in Gareth Southgate’s squad two years ago – after only making his first start in a pre-tournament friendly against Bosnia-Herzegovina.
Yet as Euro 2024 progressed, Palmer being left sitting on the bench was viewed as an indicator of Southgate’s negative approach.
When Palmer came on against Spain, he equalised after just three minutes. Vindication for Southgate’s critics.
Palmer was only 22 at the time and went on to be named England’s men’s player of the year and the PFA young player of the year. He had to be the future of England, a player who would be part of every tournament squad for years to come.
Foden, then 23, would be with him every step of the way. He won the senior PFA award that year – and it was fitting that the duo would collect their trophies at the Opera House in Manchester.
Dipped Form Impacts World Cup Chances
But while class may be permanent, form – for now – is temporary and this has cost both players a place at the World Cup.
Palmer scored 37 Premier League goals in his first two seasons at Chelsea.
But his form dipped this season. He still bagged nine goals in 25 Premier League appearances, but there was not the same zip or flash of brilliance. Those moments that had defined him had deserted him.
Foden’s form has suffered just as badly as Palmer’s – though over a longer period.
He netted six goals in five games during a purple patch just before Christmas. It hinted at a return to form, but he hasn’t scored since.
It is a far cry from 2023-24 when he plundered 19 Premier League goals, and 27 in all competitions.
His backheel assist against Crystal Palace earlier this month was the exception rather than the rule as far as his performances went.
Tuchel’s Selection Dilemma
With such competition for places in the number 10 role, coach Thomas Tuchel did not have to pick his squad on reputation.
Perhaps the key moment was in March, when Foden was given the chance to stake his claim.
- Cole Palmer has scored 10 goals for Chelsea this season compared to 15 in 2024-25, excluding the Club World Cup
- Phil Foden has made six appearances under Thomas Tuchel
The World Cup squad dilemmas facing Tuchel.