Cole Palmer is expected to step down from England's squad for the upcoming Nations League matches, according to reports, as part of a strategy to manage his workload. The 22-year-old midfielder was included in Thomas Tuchel's 27-man squad for England's fixtures against Spain, the Czech Republic (twice), and Croatia. Although Palmer was not part of the World Cup squad, he was recently recalled by Tuchel. However, it has been decided that he will not participate in the four international matches during the extended break, as reported by The Athletic's David Ornstein. Palmer recently played the full 90 minutes in Chelsea's 3-0 loss to Brentford, marking his seventh appearance of the season across all competitions. However, due to injury concerns from last season and a recent statement in which he mentioned having "one leg for 10 months," it is believed that stepping back now will help his long-term fitness. This decision comes despite his strong start to the season, in which he has scored four goals and provided two assists in seven games. Marcus Rashford, another key player, is also in doubt for the international fixtures after suffering an unspecified issue during Manchester United's 1-1 draw with Fulham. Rashford was substituted in the final stages of the match, and manager Michael Carrick confirmed the winger had been struggling with a hip problem since the summer. Similarly, Kobbie Mainoo, a Manchester United midfielder, was replaced late in the Fulham match after playing 80 minutes, raising questions about his availability for the upcoming games. These potential absences present an early challenge for Tuchel as he prepares for the expanded international break, which includes four matches over three weeks. England's schedule begins with a game against Spain at Wembley on 26 September, followed by matches against the Czech Republic and Croatia. The Nations League fixtures will conclude with another match against the Czech Republic on 6 October. With key players potentially missing, Tuchel will need to make strategic decisions to maintain England's competitiveness in the tournament.