As the international break rolls in, not every player at Chelsea F.C. will be packing their bags. Chelsea made an announcement. 12 first-team players, including Cole Palmer, will remain at the club’s training base in Cobham. They will be there for 11 days of extra sessions. This plan highlights how the club is working to keep fitness and momentum high. Especially when many are away with national teams.
Who’s staying behind?
The players who aren’t selected for international duty are staying at Cobham. Cole Palmer is one of them, still building his fitness after a groin concern. Keeping them in house means they get tailored training and match-prep while most teammates are away.
Why the extra sessions matter
When top players leave for international duty, clubs risk losing rhythm. These extra sessions aim to prevent drop-off in intensity. For Chelsea, who are chasing major goals this season, maintaining continuity is key. Training quality and readiness go up when fewer distractions are around.
Chelsea : Impact on fitness and recovery
With fewer players on site and more focus on individuals staying behind, Chelsea’s medical and coaching staff can work one-on-one. For someone like Palmer, still recovering, this environment is ideal. The same applies for players who need extra work or are consolidating their place in the squad.
🚨BREAKING: Cole Palmer closer to return.
Enzo Maresca: "Cole Palmer is doing very well with his recovery process, and he's expected to be back after this international break." pic.twitter.com/3nNIYEJAYA
— THE CHELSEA FORUM (@TheChelseaForum) November 10, 2025
What Chelsea fans should expect
This break offers a moment of quieter intensity. For supporters, it means seeing some lesser-used players or youth stars stepping up and possibly earning their chance. The club’s message seems clear: fitness, readiness and internal competition matter when the full squad reunites.
Author’s Insight
Here’s the bottom line: Chelsea’s decision to hold 12 players back for extra training shows thoughtfulness and a forward-looking mindset. It doesn’t mean they’re missing them at international duty — rather, it acknowledges the club’s own pace and aims. For the players staying, this is a moment to shine, improve and solidify their place. For the club, it’s a smart use of downtime. If this leads to sharper performances when the full squad returns, the move will prove its worth.
As featured on Chelseanews.com