In the upcoming clash against Chelsea, Manchester City faces two former players, Cole Palmer and Raheem Sterling. Pep Guardiola expresses his lack of concern over selling players to rivals, asserting that Manchester City is not a “small club.”
This confidence stems from the belief that significant decisions, including player transfers, should benefit all parties involved.
Guardiola’s approach is highlighted by the departure of Palmer and Sterling to Chelsea, a move sanctioned by the club. Even earlier transfers, such as Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko to Arsenal, were handled without reservation.
Read also: Two Ballot Box Snatchers Shot Dead in Kogi as Voters Elect New Governor
Despite the potential discomfort for managers in strengthening direct competitors, Pep Guardiola emphasizes that such concerns have “never” bothered him.
Pep Guardiola While Responding To Questions Regarding The Players That Have Left The Club
“From my point of view, I give my opinion to the club but after that, the club has to decide if the transfer is good for both sides and for the player”.
“But never (has it been an issue). I think that means you are a small club. Big clubs make decisions for the benefit of all three parties: players, both clubs – and agents sometimes. It’s not a problem.
“So if they want to go to Chelsea or (Manchester) United or, I don’t know, Liverpool or whatever, what is the problem? They are happy to be there, the club is happy about the transfer.
“Another player would come and we’d keep going: good spirit, good mood, and try to do it.”
He argues that only small clubs face issues in this regard, while big clubs make decisions for the mutual benefit of players, both clubs and occasionally agents.
The 21-year-old midfielder, Palmer, who emerged from City’s youth system, left for Chelsea due to frustration with limited playing time. Despite the promising start to the current campaign, including goals in the Community Shield and European Super Cup matches, Palmer opted for a £42.5 million move. Guardiola acknowledges the success of Palmer’s decision, emphasizing that players moving for playing opportunities reflects positively on the choices made.
Read also: LP, PDP call for cancellation of Imo Governorship election
In discussing Raheem Sterling’s departure, Guardiola notes that both Sterling and Palmer have consistently played since leaving, underscoring the wisdom in their decisions. Guardiola reveals an insightful conversation with Palmer, highlighting the player’s determination to leave for more playing time, a decision that ultimately benefited him and affirmed his considerable talent.
