Crystal Palace have received a welcome boost after manager Oliver Glasner confirmed that Jean Philippe Mateta’s knee injury is not as serious as initially feared and will not require surgery. The update comes weeks after the issue halted a potential move to AC Milan and raised concerns about the striker’s short term future at club and international level.
Mateta had been close to completing a move to the Italian giants on deadline day in a deal valued at around thirty million pounds. However, the transfer collapsed after knee problems were flagged during medical examinations, forcing Palace to keep hold of one of their key attacking options. At the time, uncertainty surrounded both the severity of the injury and the timeline for recovery.
Speaking this week, Glasner revealed that multiple specialists have since reviewed the situation and offered a more optimistic outlook. According to the Palace boss, the injury has been managed throughout the first half of the season and does not pose the long term threat that was initially suspected. While he stopped short of setting a firm return date, Glasner stressed that the focus is now on rehabilitation rather than surgical intervention.
The news is significant not only for Crystal Palace but also for Mateta himself. The French forward is keen to push for a place in the national setup ahead of the World Cup, which begins in June. Avoiding surgery gives him a realistic chance of regaining full fitness in time to re enter the conversation for selection, provided his recovery progresses smoothly.
Glasner was keen to underline the club’s support for the 28 year old, emphasizing commitment on both sides. He said Mateta would be welcomed back fully once fit and expressed confidence that the striker would continue to give everything when pulling on the Palace shirt. The manager also pointed to the importance of fan backing, suggesting supporters recognize what Mateta has already contributed since arriving in south London.
Mateta’s record at Palace underlines his value. He has scored 56 goals in 186 appearances across all competitions, establishing himself as a reliable presence in attack. This season alone, he has netted eight times in the Premier League, often providing a focal point for Palace during difficult stretches of form. His physical style and finishing have made him a key outlet, particularly in tight matches.
Competition for places will increase when Mateta returns. Palace invested heavily late in the transfer window, signing Jorgen Strand Larsen from Wolves in a deal that could rise to forty eight million pounds. The club record signing adds depth and pressure in the forward line, setting up an internal battle that Glasner believes will raise overall standards.
Palace currently sit 13th in the Premier League and are preparing to host Burnley, who remain in the relegation zone. While Mateta will miss that fixture, the club remains hopeful his return will strengthen their push for stability in the second half of the season.
