Speaking after Manchester City’s loss to Arsenal in the Community Shield, coach Pep Guardiola took time to address Cole Palmer’s future. Fabrizio Romano reports that the Spanish coach said that he would be pleased if the Englishman were to stay, but his wording suggests a potential move in the making.
Pep Guardiola Talks About Cole Palmer’s Future
Guardiola on Cole Palmer: “We have lot of confidence in Cole. I know he wanted to play last season, and didn't much. The agent, himself, we have to talk”. 🔵⭐️
“If he wants to stay, we're more than pleased. If he wants to leave, we'll find a solution because he's a top player”. pic.twitter.com/XC80DtRZZI
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 6, 2023
Limited Appearances Could Bring Departure
Romano further revealed that the 21-year-old wanted more playing time last season than he was able to get. Manchester City won the treble last year, and their team possessed several experienced and essential stars who beat Palmer out for playing time.
Guardiola would want a solution to be found should the Manchester-born attacking midfielder want to leave the club in pursuit of a constant starting job. The Spaniard also admitted his confidence in the player’s ability, which could signal hope that a deal can be made for the “outstanding” player to get enough time on the pitch to stay at the Etihad.
Not Everyone Impressed With Englishman
Similar words of praise and encouragement were not so recently being spoken about Palmer, who was part of England’s UEFA European U21 Championship winning squad this year. Other staff members, though none of them named, are reportedly unimpressed with his development progress.
Watch: How Will Pep Guardiola Help Manchester City Defend the Treble?
Palmer made 25 total appearances with The Citizens last year, most of them being substitute appearances. He only contributed one goal in his slew of brief performances on the pitch, but his goal in the Community Shield against a talented Arsenal back-four has given his stock a significant rise.
Potential Suitors for Cole Palmer
Although a deal between the two sides never seemed to formulate, Brighton and Hove Albion remain one of the top destinations for Palmer should he leave his current club. At such a young age the City midfielder could be a great purchase or loan deal for any Premier League team.
Featured Image: Ank Kumar, CC-BY-SA-4.0.
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