Pep Guardiola has opened up about Cole Palmer’s £42.5 million switch to Chelsea, shedding light on their conversation before the move. Although Guardiola expressed a desire to retain the talented midfielder, Palmer opted for regular playing time at Chelsea.
Palmer, who scored goals for Manchester City in both the Community Shield and UEFA Super Cup, made the switch to Chelsea on deadline day in August.
The 21-year-old has made a substantial impact at his new club with three goals and four assists in his first ten appearances this season.
Guardiola has revealed that he tried to convince Palmer to stay by assuring him a more prominent role in the Manchester City squad following Riyad Mahrez’s departure. However, Palmer insisted on leaving for Chelsea for regular playing time.
Reflecting on the situation, Guardiola stated, “Cole arrived, accepted some processes, and after one or two years, he said, ‘No, I don’t want to play here, I am not going to play.’ I informed him that Riyad [Mahrez] was leaving, and he would get a chance, but he insisted on leaving.”
The Man City manager expressed no regrets about Palmer’s departure, acknowledging the player’s desire for consistent playing time. Guardiola commented, “He got what he wanted. It is good for him. He is a young player, a huge talent, and is doing really well.”
🗣 "I'd have loved him to stay here, but he said: 'No, I want to leave'."
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola discusses acadamy graduate Cole Palmer's form since leaving to join Chelsea 🔵📈 pic.twitter.com/nldWo89h4e
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) November 12, 2023
Guardiola Previews Chelsea Clash
Looking ahead to the clash with Chelsea, Guardiola’s squad will face Palmer as well as Raheem Sterling, another former player. When asked about preventing players from joining rivals, Guardiola emphasised that he never intervenes, letting the club decide based on what suits all parties involved. He stressed that big clubs prioritise decisions that benefit players, both clubs, and sometimes agents.
Guardiola concluded, “They want to go to Chelsea or United or Liverpool, whatever, what is the problem? They are happy to be there, the club is happy with the transfer. The other club is happy with the amount of money they spend, it is fine.”
As Manchester City prepares to face Chelsea on Sunday, Guardiola remains focused on extending their lead at the top of the Premier League table. You can read our predictions and betting tips for the match here.
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