Crystal Palace have endured a tumultuous start to the 2024/25 season, with one player in particular looking lost on the pitch.
Prior to the season starting, Oliver Glasner had ambitions of pushing for Europe with this Eagles side. This ambition was built on the back of the incredible end to the season which saw Crystal Palace secure a 10th place finish.
This season however has been far from good enough as the Eagles sit 18th in the Premier League, with the attack suffering from the absence of Michael Olise after his move to Bayern Munich.This loss has led to the entire team regressing in quality with Jean-Philippe Mateta being among those worst affected.Jean-Philippe Mateta will be angry at Oliver Glasner
Mateta has been poor this season, failing to contribute to the team’s performances – with a brace against Leicester not enough to paper over the cracks.
With Mateta’s struggles, there is growing pressure for the Frenchman to be dropped and for Eddie Nketiah instead to be used as a striker.
It has been reported that Mateta is currently unhappy with Glasner for his decision to substitute the man from Sevran at half-time during the recent 0-0 draw with Manchester United.Mateta was withdrawn for Ismaila Sarr in the game which undoubtedly improved the Eagles attacking prospects.
But now there has been a decision by Didier Deschamps which might leave Mateta even angrier with Mateta.
Deschamps named his France squad for the latest international break and one player missing out was Mateta.
Mateta has previously admitted in an interview that he dreams daily of being called up by France. Therefore to have missed out on this opportunity once again, we imagine he will be livid and it won’t help his relationship with Glasner.
Crystal Palace and Mateta are in a bad place
Mateta was a fan favourite for a six-month period last season, but things between him and the club now appear to be at odds. A lot of things have changed since Mateta made Crystal Palace history last season
Missing out on the French squad will have frustrated Mateta who may be annoyed at Glasner for how the season has started as he has struggled in the new system at Selhurst Park – with his half-time withdrawal vs United escalating matters.
Making things worse, the contract situation remains on edge with Mateta walking out of talks which does not bode well.
This situation all round seems to be heading in a bad direction, so it is key that the contract talks are concluded and Crystal Palace find form to keep Mateta and other stars happy.
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