Tuchel said Palmer had suffered from “a lack of individual form within his club” and had not been “as decisive or as influential” as in previous seasons.
The England manager also pointed to Palmer’s repeated injury withdrawals and his limited impact when available for international duty. That combination has left the Chelsea forward short of the automatic selection status his reputation might normally command.
Tuchel’s message is uncompromising: ability earns consideration, but consistency earns a place.
Jude Bellingham, Morgan Rogers and Eberechi Eze have been selected for the attacking midfield roles, while Noni Madueke is preferred as cover for Bukayo Saka on the right.
That balance appears to leave Palmer without an obvious specialist position. Tuchel does not currently see him as the first-choice central creator, while also resisting the idea of moving him wide simply to accommodate his name.
“I would not bring players for the name,” Tuchel said, reinforcing the tactical thinking behind the omission.
Crucially, Tuchel has not questioned Palmer’s character or long-term potential. He described him as having a “very unique personality”, praised his calmness in major moments and stressed that Palmer had “never been a problem in camp”.
This is therefore a footballing judgement, not a disciplinary one. Tuchel admitted it was one of his hardest calls and recognised Palmer as one of the biggest names left out.
The next international window will offer Palmer a route back. A strong run for Chelsea, improved fitness and greater influence in England colours would make the decision far harder for Tuchel to repeat.