Toney’s case is not hard to understand. Reports suggest his form for Al-Ahli has been difficult to ignore, with the striker apparently piling up goals and giving Tuchel a very different option from England’s other attacking names.
More than that, Toney offers a classic tournament weapon:
The update also quotes Tuchel saying, “Ele ganhou um grande título com a Asian Champions League e teve grande contribuição com gols e assistências.” That points to more than finishing; it points to trust in big moments.
If Palmer does miss out, it would feel significant - but not necessarily shocking. His talent is obvious, yet squad building is often about fit as much as flair. In tournament football, managers sometimes lean toward profile over reputation, and Toney’s profile is very specific: a striker who can change the texture of a game.
Palmer, by contrast, appears to be competing in a crowded band of attacking midfielders and wide creators. If Tuchel wants balance, specialists can edge out all-round technicians.
There is also a practical side to this. Tuchel is quoted as saying, “Eu disse da última vez que tentaria colocar uma visita no meu cronograma, o que não aconteceu, então pensei em trazê-lo e deixá-lo viajar conosco.” That sounds like a manager who wanted a closer look and may now be ready to act on it.
The official squad announcement on Friday should settle the argument. Until then, Toney’s possible return - and Palmer’s uncertain place - looks like one of the most revealing subplots in England’s summer.