Free scoring Chelsea Star Cole Palmer rarely featured during his time at Manchester City.
The 21-year-old moved to Chelsea from City in a deal worth up to £42.5m in September and could face his former side at Etihad Stadium on Saturday.
Since leaving City, Palmer has made his first two England appearances and scored 10 goals in the Premier League.
“After two or three seasons he wanted more minutes than the last season. I understand completely,” said Guardiola.
“If Palmer had the minutes I gave to Phil [Foden] from the beginning, Cole Palmer would be here – but I didn’t give them to him. That is my responsibility.
“Why? Because of Bernardo [Silva], Riyad [Mahrez], Phil. In that moment, I chose the other ones.”
Palmer, who came through City’s academy, started two Premier League matches in 2022-23 with a further 12 substitute appearances as Guardiola’s side won the title.
Mahrez moved to Saudi Arabian side Al-Ahli in a £30m deal in July and a month later Palmer scored at Wembley for City in the Community Shield against Arsenal, with the Gunners winning 4-1 on penalties after the game had finished 1-1.
Palmer is expected to be the danger man as he faces his former side in a mouthwatering clash.
City is expected to extend their winning run while Chelsea is seeking to gain the three important points.
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