FOOTBALL
Posted on May 13, 2026 1:00 am | Updated on May 12, 2026 10:23 pm
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The former England and Chelsea star Joe Cole has made a bold call. He wants new England boss Thomas Tuchel to drop Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka and pick Chelsea’s Cole Palmer instead. Cole believes this change on the right wing can help England finally win the World Cup in 2026.
Why Joe Cole Prefers Palmer Over Bukayo Saka?
Joe Cole played 56 times for England. On The Joe Cole Cast podcast, he shared his dream England team for the World Cup. He picked Palmer to start on the right side. Cole said Palmer should come inside from the right, like he does for Chelsea. This creates a strong attack with two top wingers in the football field.
Saka has been England’s top right winger for years but Cole thinks Palmer gives more in important games. Palmer can score goals, make chances and control play from deeper areas. Cole wants a team that controls the ball and presses well to win the trophy.
Saka’s Stats, as per transfermarkt:
Bukayo Saka Appearances Goals Assists
Premier League 30 7 6
Palmer’s Stats, as per transfermarkt:
Cole Palmer Appearances Goals Assists
Premier League 24 9 1
In this season, Palmer has scored 9 goals and given multiple assists. He is excellent at penalties and creating chances in tight spaces. In this Premier League season, even with some injuries, he remains a key player for the west London club.
Bukayo Saka is a key figure for Arsenal as well as for the national team. He is a regular goal scorer and assist provider. Over his career, he has delivered consistent Premier League output with goals and assists in double figures most seasons.
According to the Metro UK, Palmer’s ability to drift inside and link with attackers like Jude Bellingham excites Cole. Bukayo Saka is more of a traditional winger who stays wide. Cole called Declan Rice the most important player. He wants Rice to control the midfield and win the ball back. He also picked Gordon on the left for his energy and goals.
READ MORE: Myles Lewis-Skelly set for axe in Arsenal vs Atletico
England’s World Cup Hopes for Joe Cole
England have reached the semi-finals and quarter finals in recent tournaments but have not won the World Cup since 1966. They are among the favourites again as Thomas Tuchel took charge recently and will name his final squad soon.
England play in Group L with games against Croatia, Ghana, and Panama starting in June 2026. The good results can lead to knockout stages where big decisions matter. Cole thinks his team has power, skill and goals. With players like Kane, Bellingham, Rice, and Palmer, England can control matches and beat top teams.
READ MORE: Bukayo Saka hints at PSG revenge after Arsenal final spot
The Future of Bukayo Saka in The World Cup
This idea has sparked several debates as Arsenal fans love Saka’s loyalty and hard work. Chelsea fans point to Palmer’s big moments and creativity. Many experts say both players are world class and Tuchel can use them together or rotate. Saka brings direct running and experience in crucial England games. Palmer offers flair and different movement that can surprise opponents.
READ MORE: Alvaro Carreras future in doubt as Arsenal close in
Joe Cole’s message is clear which is to win the World Cup. Tuchel must pick the best players for the system, even if it means tough choices like dropping Saka for Palmer. Only time will tell what Tuchel does, but the debate shows how much talent England has. England have the squad to end 60 years of hurt. The right selections on the wings and in midfield could make the dream come true in 2026.
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Debanjan Mallick
Debanjan Mallick is a Senior Football Writer at Six Sports, delivering expert coverage of football matches, player performances, and tactical developments. With substantial experience in football journalism, he focuses on providing detailed analysis and feature articles that engage readers and offer deeper insights into the sport. Through his contributions to Six Sports, Debanjan produces comprehensive football content, including match breakdowns, tactical evaluations, and analytical features. His writing blends clarity with expertise, making him a reliable source for fans seeking high-quality football coverage.
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