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Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has shed light on the discussions leading up to Cole Palmer’s high-profile transfer to Chelsea this summer.

Palmer, who moved to City’s Premier League rivals for a staggering £42.5 million on deadline day, had been a significant prospect at City, showcasing his talent by scoring in both the Community Shield and UEFA Super Cup finals.

This impressive start has sparked interest in the behind-the-scenes dynamics of his transfer from Manchester City.

Guardiola, known for his forthright approach, revealed that he attempted to retain Palmer at Manchester City.

In a bid to persuade the young talent, Guardiola informed him of the impending departure of Riyad Mahrez from the club.

Despite these efforts, Palmer opted for the move, seeking new challenges and opportunities with Chelsea.

“Cole arrived and accepted some processes and then after one or two years said ‘No, I don’t want to play here, I am not going to play.’ But I said ‘Riyad [Mahrez] is leaving, you are going to get a chance here,’ and he said ‘No, I am not going to play here, I want to leave,’ so I said ‘OK, leave,'” Guardiola explained.