All three City attacking midfielders were introduced either just before or just after the hour-mark against Arsenal and the trio were all involved with the goal that looked as though it would be enough to win the FA Community Shield – until the Gunners’ added time deflected equaliser.
The Blues went in to lose the resulting penalty shootout, but all three Matchday Live pundits believe Palmer could be set for a big season.
“The three subs came on and really made a real difference - I’m delighted for Cole Palmer because he really looked nervous with his first few touches,” said Dickov.
“That will do him the world of good - scoring at Wembley for the first team and this could be a big season for him.”
Former City skipper Curle agreed: “There are lots of positives to take from the game - Palmer‘s goal was excellent.
“The movement of Phil Foden in the buildup, inviting the press and then rolling his opponent before bursting forward, picking out a pass -it was good link play by Kevin De Bruyne and then Palmer’s finish was sublime.
“It’s important for all the young players to play in games like this, and for Foden, too.
“It’s vitally important for Phil - not just getting minutes - but to have an impact when he does play because it’s a huge season for him for City and for England.
“He needs City to be successful this season, he has a desire to play and wants to have an impact.
“Phil has different dynamics and will cause different problems - it’s good to have different options and movements that can cause the opposition problems.”
Ex-Arsenal striker Kevin Campbell believes City were unlucky not to win.
The father of former City Academy graduate Tyrese Campbell says had the Blues been a touch sharper and further along with their pre-season preparations, the outcome would have been different.
“Arsenal just got lucky today, that’s the only difference,” said Campbell.
“The confidence of winning the Treble was clear to see and in that first 30 minutes, I was like, wow, because no matter whatever Arsenal tried, City got out of it and got out of it very easily.
“I believe Arsenal got a little bit lucky and got away with it a bit, because if City were where they wanted to be physically, I think the game would have been over.
“Aaron Ramsdale had to produce two quality saves to keep Arsenal in it.
“I thought Cole Palmer was excellent. He had a chance to score just before, so to have the wherewithal to settle himself down, then the execution of the shot was just superb. He made an impact and I thought he was good.
“But I have to say, Kevin De Bruyne is still the guy - he is still the man - he came on with Palmer and Foden and they all made a difference.
“I think Manchester City weren’t quite at their level and I believe they are still the team to beat this season.”
