Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta is facing a major dilemma after his proposed £30m deadline day transfer to AC Milan collapsed due to a knee issue uncovered during medical checks. The 28-year-old has been playing with the problem for some time and must now decide whether to undergo surgery, which could sideline him for months and jeopardise his chances of making France's squad for this summer's World Cup.
Mateta had been hoping to secure a move away from Selhurst Park, with interest also coming from Juventus and Nottingham Forest, but the failed Milan deal has left him devastated. He has made it clear he wants to leave Palace, and with only 12 months remaining on his contract after this season, a summer exit appears inevitable. The club cannot afford to let him run down his deal, having already sold Marc Guehi to Manchester City for a reduced fee due to his short contract.
The striker enjoyed an outstanding year at Palace, winning the FA Cup, scoring crucial goals, and helping the club qualify for Europe. However, the lingering knee problem has affected his form and availability. Mateta is concerned that if he undergoes surgery and fails to regain full fitness in time, he may miss out on selection for France manager Didier Deschamps' World Cup squad.
Mateta has expressed his frustration off the pitch, unfollowing Palace on Instagram and posting a fed-up emoji. He will now hold discussions with the club and medical experts to determine the best course of treatment. It remains uncertain whether he will be available for Palace's upcoming match against Brighton. A decision on surgery will be critical for both his club future and his international aspirations.
