Palmer describes the groin problem as the first serious injury of his career and admits he may have tried to return too soon. “Nos primeiros meses, estando lesionado, eu só queria entrar e jogar, o que provavelmente não deveria ter feito,” he said.
He reportedly sought medical advice abroad, with surgery discussed but ultimately not pursued. The account does not establish the details of his current recovery independently, so the coming campaign will show whether the injury is truly behind him. For Chelsea, keeping a key creative player fit could matter as much as finding his best position.
Palmer also missed England’s World Cup squad, a decision attributed to Thomas Tuchel. He reportedly had around seven weeks away from club and international football, travelling with family before growing eager to return to training. “Fiquei entediado depois de umas seis semanas,” he said.
The omission appears to have stung, but Palmer reportedly says his immediate focus is Chelsea, rather than winning his way back into the England squad. That distinction gives the reset a clear purpose: rebuild rhythm at club level first.
Alonso is reportedly planning to use Palmer as a No. 10, a position that could bring him closer to the areas where he can create chances and combine with the forward line. Palmer has praised the new coaching setup, calling it “um sopro de ar fresco.”
The next test is whether that tactical fit translates into sustained performances once the season begins. Palmer’s fitness, his adaptation to Alonso’s central role and the response to his England omission will all be storylines to watch.