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Pep Guardiola takes responsibility for Manchester City’s inability to retain Cole Palmer.
The champions transferred Palmer, a promising player from their academy, to Chelsea in the previous summer.
The 21-year-old player, who was part of City’s squad that won three titles last season, has been performing exceptionally well since joining the team. He has been the standout player for the London club this season.
Guardiola has acknowledged that he did not provide enough playing time to the young player, who will be facing City at the Etihad Stadium this Saturday. He also understands the player’s decision to leave.
The manager of the City expressed, “We always hope that young players will stay, but it’s natural for them to seek more playing time after two or three seasons. I completely understand.”
“If I had given Cole Palmer the same amount of playing time as Phil Foden from the start, he would be here now. However, I chose not to do so, and I take full responsibility for that.”
“Why? Because of Bernardo Silva, Riyad Mahrez, and Phil. At that time, I selected the others.”
“After enjoying one season and the second season, by the third season, I start feeling eager to play instead of sitting on the bench.”
“This is to be expected. As a club, we understand the situation. We received an offer from a top club like Chelsea, which is truly exciting, and I am very happy for him. These types of things occur in all clubs.”
In November, when the two teams faced off at Stamford Bridge, Palmer scored a penalty kick that led to Chelsea’s late equalizing goal against City.
This season, he has scored 12 goals and assisted nine times, making him the top scorer and assist-provider for Chelsea.
Guardiola stated that they were aware of his exceptional abilities and the significant impact he has made this season.
“It’s not just about scoring and setting up goals, it’s about the level of skill and impact he brings to Chelsea. He poses a huge threat.”
Palmer’s success elsewhere has not affected City’s performance, as they are currently in a solid position to defend the three major trophies they claimed last year.
Some commentators, like Gary Neville, have discussed whether Manchester City’s consistent and dominant performance in games makes them a dull team to watch.
Guardiola is happy that his team has achieved a level where this topic is being talked about.
He expressed gratitude for the compliment and responded, “What can I say? It’s all good.”
Football is a challenging sport, requiring players to perform numerous tasks in order to secure victories. The dedication and achievements of these players, not only this season but throughout their careers, are truly admirable.
I am incredibly impressed by my players. Their consistency and dedication towards our opponents is truly remarkable.
Guardiola does not believe that these discussions imply that he or his team are not receiving enough recognition for their accomplishments.
He stated that they definitely have credit and are admired, expressing confidence in this belief.
Those in the football world are aware of the immense challenge of competing for six or seven years across all tournaments.
“In the future, you will remember. It may seem simple, but it is not.”
Source: independent.co.uk
