Crystal Palace forward, Jean-Philippe Mateta, is currently facing an uncertain future both for his club and country. After a potential move to AC Milan fell through due to medical issues, the striker now finds himself in a precarious position as he contemplates his next steps.
Mateta's dream of joining AC Milan was shattered when the deal worth £30m collapsed over concerns regarding his knee injury. Despite trying to force a move away from Selhurst Park during the final days of the January transfer window, two rounds of medical tests alarmed Milan officials enough to withdraw from the agreement.
According to sources close to BBC Sport, Crystal Palace had been transparent with Milan about Mateta's knee problems. They sent full medical reports towards the end of last week in anticipation of finalizing a deal. However, it was revealed that Milan's apprehensions were specifically related to Mateta's right knee. The 28-year-old player had suffered a ruptured meniscus while playing for Mainz in 2019 which required surgery and kept him out for approximately six months.
Knee issue
Milan concluded after their examinations that another operation would likely be necessary due its 'inflammation'. They believe that therapy and load management alone cannot resolve this issue.
The prospect of surgery seems like a sensible approach as it would allow Mateta freedom from pain he has recently been struggling with. It could also alleviate any fitness concerns future suitors might have before any potential transfer away from Selhurst Park.
From Crystal Palace’s perspective too, this could be beneficial as it may eliminate current knee problems posing an obstacle towards any future sale.
Implications on World Cup selection
However, there are other factors at play here beyond just club football - namely international duty with France at the upcoming World Cup. Depending on the recovery and rehabilitation period, surgery could limit Mateta's time to prove his worth to France manager Didier Deschamps for a spot in Les Bleus' squad this summer.
Moreover, the club record signing of Jorgen Strand Larsen for £48m will also affect Mateta's first-team opportunities between now and the summer. Despite scoring two goals in three matches for France since his debut last year, limited playing time could hamper his chances of fulfilling his World Cup dream. Mateta's current contract with Crystal Palace expires in 2027 when he would leave the club without any transfer fee. Therefore, selling him this summer is certainly an option that will be considered by Palace.
However, with a potential World Cup appearance at stake and reduced playing time due to new signings at Selhurst Park, Mateta finds himself grappling with a difficult decision following his failed move to San Siro. His next steps will undoubtedly have significant implications both for his career at Crystal Palace and potentially on an international stage.
