Jean-Philippe Mateta has endured a disappointing season with Crystal Palace due to his failed winter exit and an injury problem.
Jean-Philippe Mateta was heavily linked with a move away from Crystal Palace during the January transfer window. AC Milan were hoping to secure his signature, but the injury prevented the deal from going through.
Mateta has not been able to get back to his best since then. The player recently scored his first goal for Crystal Palace in over three months against Fiorentina. He was exceptional for Crystal Palace last season, and he was hoping to play in the World Cup with France this summer. However, the knee injury has clearly ruined his chances of representing his country in the summer. France already has top-quality attacking players at their disposal.
However, the Crystal Palace star is not willing to give up on his dream, and he is hoping to make the cut.
“It has been a rather strange period, but you adapt,” he told Canal+ (h/t Sport Witness).
“It’s on my mind. It’s one of the reasons why I didn’t give up,” he added when asked about the national team.
Can Mateta rediscover his best form?
There is no doubt that Mateta is a quality player on his day. He has proven himself in the Premier League and was also linked to big clubs like Manchester United. The ill-timed injury has had a devastating effect on his career, and it remains to be seen whether he can finish the season strongly and convince the national team manager to give him an opportunity in the World Cup.
At 28, this is his final opportunity to represent his country in the World Cup. It remains to be seen whether he can turn things around over the next few weeks. Mateta has played 1945 minutes of Premier League football this season, and he has found the back of the net just eight times. The French attacker has 11 goals in all competitions this season. He was at his peak last season and scored 17 goals in all competitions.