Chelsea footballer Cole Palmer is facing a troubling situation regarding his fitness and form, which could jeopardize his participation in the upcoming World Cup. After having a demanding 2023-24 season that included playing in the Club World Cup, Palmer has struggled to maintain his form and has suffered from injuries, managing to appear in only 19 out of 42 games this season. This lack of playing time has raised concerns about his readiness for international competition, as he has not been named to head coach Thomas Tuchel's squad since last June.

The Professional Footballers’ Association’s chief executive Maheta Molango has expressed significant worries about player burnout and the risks posed to athletes who are pushed to play too many games without adequate rest. With the football calendar expanding and demand increasing, players like Palmer bear the brunt of these changes, highlighting a wider issue in the sport regarding player welfare and the balance of a competitive season with the necessity for recovery.

As the World Cup approaches, Palmer's situation becomes increasingly precarious, raising questions about not only his future with the national team but also the broader implications for player management within professional football. Should he continue to be sidelined due to injury and form, it would not only impact Palmer’s career but also the England squad's depth and quality at a crucial time.