Pep Guardiola admits Manchester City Community Shield star transfer worry amid trio of Premier League enquiries

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has admitted that Cole Palmer’s future at the Etihad Stadium remains uncertain, despite scoring against Arsenal on Sunday.

The 21-year-old opened the scoring against Arsenal in the FA Community Shield, netting a sublime goal in the 77th minute after replacing Erling Haaland in North London.

Palmer’s wonderful strike was cancelled out by a 101st minute deflected effort by Leandro Trossard, with the Gunners going on to beat Manchester City 4-1 on penalties, and claim the first piece of silverware of the season.

The forward’s fifth senior goal for Manchester City came following an incredibly impressive summer with England; where the forward starred at the U21 European Championships in Georgia.

Palmer was an unused substitute on 29 occasions for the Blues last season, and made just seven starts for Pep Guardiola’s side during the famous treble-winning campaign.

The 21-year-olds cameo performance at Wembley will add further scrutiny to talk regarding his Manchester City future; as Premier League clubs continue to circle for the forward, and Guardiola seeks to replace Riyad Mahrez.

Brighton, Burnley and Sheffield United have all been linked with signing Palmer this summer, although a loan move is currently preferred by City, who are keen to provide the player with regular first-team minutes.

The exit of Mahrez to Saudi Pro-League side Al-Ahli has thrown a significant spanner into the works, with the Algerian’s departure from the Etihad Stadium somewhat unexpected, after the five-time Premier League winner signed a new deal until 2025, just last year.

After Sunday’s defeat to Arsenal on penalties, Pep Guardiola admitted that Palmer’s future is yet to be decided, despite the new Premier League season starting next weekend.

“Tomorrow he’s going to train. We have a lot of confidence, appreciate a lot. I know he wanted to play last season, and didn’t much.

“The agent, himself, we have to talk. If he wants to stay, we’re more than pleased. If he wants to leave, we’ll find a solution because he’s a top player.”

Palmer made his full Premier League debut against Everton in 2021, and also scored against Burnley in the FA Cup quarter-final last season.

Manchester City begin their Premier League campaign against Vincent Kompany’s side at Turf Moor on Friday evening, prior to the UEFA Super Cup in Athens.

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