Guardiola reply directly to Palmer’s impressive Chelsea start, expressing expressing regret over missed transfer opportunities
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has issued a response to Chelsea midfielder Cole Palmer’s success since his move away from the Etihad Stadium.
The 21-year-old has been integral to the Blues’ resurgence under Mauricio Pochettino, having already netted three penalties since his £42.5m deadline day move to Stamford Bridge. His first came in the 4-1 win over Burnley before he fired the Blues in front after 15 minutes against London rivals Arsenal in the 2-2 draw last month.
He then found his third spot-kick against rivals Tottenham which proved to be a big momentum swing for the Blues as they eventually ran out 4-1 victors – all of that coming on top of two assists that have proven vital to Chelsea’s tally so far this season.
Palmer himself has admitted that despite stepping into the unknown with his move to the Blues, he’s already more than comfortable at the club. “I’m really enjoying Chelsea,’ he explained to the club website earlier this season.
“The lads, the staff, everything about it. Hopefully, now we can kick on further. Everyone knows what playing for Chelsea means.
“It’s a massive club and we need wins, speaking about the project can’t be a cop-out for not winning. So we need to perform and compete for some trophies.”
Having been part of Guardiola’s City side over the past few years, it’s fair to say he’s seen a lot of success in recent times including the treble-winning side in their last campaign. Now he wants to bring more silverware under Pochettino to Stamford Bridge.
“I’m trying to add to my trophy cabinet for sure at Chelsea,” he said. “Hopefully, this season, but if not then hopefully in the future. We’ve got a lot of good players, a good structure. So I don’t see why not in the future.”
However, despite being willing to let the star go over the summer, City boss Guardiola issued a blunt response to a question asking about how proud he is of the youngster blossoming elsewhere in the Premier League. In his pre-match press conference earlier this week, he said: “Congratulations for Chelsea and him.”
After being pressed for an actual answer by reporters, Guardiola eventually opened up, saying: “[I’m] really pleased. The reason why was that, he wanted game time.
“He has it, so congratulations. He is a guy who came from the academy, he’s having success because it’s good for him and wish him the best.”
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