England World Cup 2026 Race Heats Up: Cole Palmer Surges Past Morgan Rogers

Competing for the No. 10 Position

Both Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer rose through the Manchester City academy, transitioned to significant roles at different clubs, and became well-known figures in the Premier League. Currently, they’re vying for a spot in England’s starting XI under Thomas Tuchel for the 2026 World Cup. Their recent match, where Chelsea faced Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge, presented an intriguing showdown between the two players.

Heading into the match, Rogers was in remarkable form, boasting seven goals and three assists in just 17 appearances. In contrast, Palmer had a less impressive tally of only seven goals and assists combined for the entire year of 2025. Despite returning to action only a few weeks prior, Palmer seemed a bit off his game during Chelsea’s 2-1 loss, where he showed visible frustration after initially leading 1-0 at halftime.

Enzo Maresca has been gradually reintroducing the 24-year-old into the fold, possibly due to concerns of a recurring groin injury that could sideline him for a lengthy period again. Understandably, Palmer hasn’t yet reached the peak form he displayed during his debut season when he scored 22 goals.

In contrast, Rogers has turned his season around after a slow start, establishing himself as one of the standout players in the league. While Villa struggled initially against Chelsea without a single shot in the first half, Unai Emery’s tactical adjustments 12 minutes into the second half proved crucial in reviving their performance.

Rogers initiated the equalizer by receiving a pass from Youri Tielemans and expertly feeding it to Ollie Watkins, who scored past Robert Sanchez. Villa surged forward, with Rogers and Tielemans creating several scoring opportunities, making it feel inevitable that they would clinch a winner. Meanwhile, Palmer wore a displeased expression as he was substituted.

Villa’s persistence paid off in the 84th minute with Watkins allowed a free header from a Tielemans corner. As Palmer sat on the bench looking dejected, Rogers celebrated with his teammates near the corner flag, surrounded by jubilant supporters. Witnessing his friend’s success at his own expense surely stung, and Tuchel—if observing—would have noted the differences in their performances.

With less than six months until the World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States, Rogers is clearly gaining momentum as the season progresses. Following their third home defeat in league play, Chelsea is in dire need of Palmer to find his former self — not just for the team, but also considering the heightened competition for the No. 10 role as the summer approaches.