“Don’t try me” – Pep Guardiola sends message to Cole Palmer ahead of Chelsea clash
Pep Guardiola has heaped praise on Cole Palmer ahead of Saturday’s clash between Manchester City and Chelsea.
Palmer has been one of Chelsea’s best performers this season, following his £45m move from Man City last summer.
Cole Palmer believes he never had the trust of the Man City boss during his time at City, but Pep Guardiola has said otherwise.
“I didn’t have any doubts about his quality. The way he’s playing is a star player,” Guardiola said.
“He’s just an exceptional player. He moved on to get the minutes he has, it was just a question of time to show his quality. He’s a lovely lad and he helped us to achieve what we achieved.”
Meanwhile, Mauricio Pochettino believes Cole Palmer has the quality to handle the pressure ahead of the game. Palmer impressed beyond doubts in the reverse fixture at Stamford Bridge
Pochettino said: “He’s not this type of player who needs to prove anything.
“He’s very grateful for his period at Manchester City and he left the club because he wanted to find another challenge or have the possibility to play more.
“He’s adapted very well and he’s lucky because he’s playing a lot of games here. He’s going to be there trying to play and perform for himself and for his team.”