Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta has lifted the lid on the secret behind his remarkable transformation in front of goal, revealing that teammate Wilfried Zaha played a pivotal role in his recent scoring spree.
The French forward, who joined the Eagles permanently last summer, struggled to find consistent form initially but has emerged as a key attacking threat this season. In an exclusive revelation, Mateta disclosed how Zaha's crucial advice helped unlock his potential.
The Zaha Influence
"Wilfried told me something important that changed everything," Mateta confessed. "He said I needed to be more selfish in front of goal, to stop hesitating and just shoot. That simple advice made all the difference."
The 25-year-old striker explained how Zaha's words resonated with him during a period of frustration. "I was thinking too much, trying to make the perfect play. Wilfried reminded me that as a striker, sometimes you just need to trust your instincts and pull the trigger."
From Struggles to Success
Mateta's journey at Selhurst Park hasn't been straightforward. After arriving on loan from Mainz in January 2021, he faced challenges adapting to the Premier League's physical demands and pace.
However, since making his move permanent, the Frenchman has shown significant improvement, with his recent performances drawing praise from fans and pundits alike. His powerful presence upfront and improved decision-making have made him a valuable asset to Patrick Vieira's squad.
Team Chemistry Pays Dividends
The bond between Mateta and Zaha exemplifies the growing chemistry within the Crystal Palace dressing room. "We have a great understanding now," Mateta revealed. "Wilfried knows when I'm going to make runs, and I know when he wants to take players on."
This developing partnership has given Palace fans reason for optimism as the team continues to build under Vieira's leadership. The manager's faith in both players has been rewarded with crucial goals and improved attacking performances.
Looking Ahead
With his confidence soaring, Mateta appears ready to establish himself as a consistent Premier League performer. "I feel settled now, I understand the league better, and I have great teammates supporting me," he said.
The striker's revelation about Zaha's influence underscores the importance of experienced players mentoring newcomers – a factor that could prove crucial as Crystal Palace aims to climb the Premier League table and build on their recent progress.
