Cole Palmer returned to Manchester City with a smile, ready to face his new team, Chelsea, in a crucial Premier League encounter.
The 21-year-old midfielder, a product of the City academy with over ten years at the club, made a surprising move to Chelsea during the summer transfer window.
Since joining the Blues, Palmer has been a revelation, showcasing his skills with an impressive record of 14 goals and nine assists in 31 appearances under the management of Mauricio Pochettino.
In anticipation of the highly awaited match between Chelsea and the reigning Premier League champions, Palmer was featured in Chelsea’s starting lineup, receiving warm greetings from his former City teammates in the tunnel.
Players like Rodri, Kyle Walker, and Erling Haaland exchanged handshakes with Palmer, who embraced the chance to reconnect with old friends.
However, such pre-match interactions have faced criticism, particularly from figures like Sky Sports pundit Roy Keane, known for his fierce competitiveness during his playing days.
Keane expressed disapproval of players engaging in friendly exchanges before intense matches, believing that pleasantries should be saved for after the battle on the pitch.
Despite making 41 appearances under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, Palmer wasn’t a regular starter under the Spanish manager.
Guardiola acknowledged Palmer’s desire for more playing time and respected his decision to seek opportunities elsewhere.
Guardiola noted that if Palmer had received the same playing time as Phil Foden, he might have chosen to stay at the club.
Nevertheless, Guardiola expressed happiness for Palmer’s move to Chelsea, understanding that such transitions are part of football, especially when prestigious clubs like Chelsea come calling.
