Alan Shearer has cast doubt on Pep Guardiola's previous assertions that he always knew Cole Palmer was destined for greatness.
Despite Manchester City's reluctance, they allowed the budding star to transfer to Chelsea in 2023, a move that now seems like a bargain given Palmer's exceptional performances for both his club and country over the past year and a half.
Guardiola had earlier claimed, "If he plays regularly, yes. I didn't have any doubts about his quality. The way he's playing is a star player. He wanted the minutes, it was a question of time to show his immense quality."
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However, following Palmer's impressive two-goal display in Chelsea's thrilling 4-3 victory at Tottenham, Shearer expressed skepticism on The Rest is Football podcast: "I wonder how Man City are looking at him now and their decision [to let him leave]. I know they got big money for him but I'm not sure they thought he would go to do the things he's doing, no way."
Gary Lineker chimed in with, "Well, they got big money but nothing like what he'd be worth now." Adding to the conversation, former City defender Micah Richards reflected on the timing of the sale: "At the time, it was perfect for City. He was homegrown, they got £40million, it's worth more because of [FFP] rules."
Palmer's former City youth coach has confessed he would not have sold the England star, saying he was worth more and another year on loan would have benefited him more.
Alan Shearer has questioned the decision (Image: The Rest is Football//Youtube)
Palmer, who has been touted for a possible transfer to Real Madrid, has become essential to Chelsea, who have narrowed the gap to four points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool after their win in the London derby on Sunday.
After Palmer scored twice from penalties, Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca again praised Palmer's impact, saying: "I know Cole from time ago, I really trust him in every aspect."
"First of all, he's a fantastic boy, a fantastic guy and then, as I've said already many times, he has to learn. He is learning how to play the game when they mark him man-to-man. He is learning, he is improving, he is scoring goals, he is happy and we are all happy."