The dispute is lost. France national team star wants to leave English club
Crystal Palace forward Jean-Philippe Mateta is determined to leave the London club despite being under contract. The Frenchman attempted to challenge a clause that would automatically extend his deal by another year, aiming to become a free agent and choose his next club on his own terms.
However, Mateta's efforts fell short. According to Diario AS, an independent tribunal ruled against the striker, and FIFA also refused to support his position. As a result, the forward remains contractually bound to Crystal Palace.
It’s worth noting that Mateta is a France international and one of Crystal Palace’s key attacking players. Had he managed to leave as a free agent, the move would have sparked significant interest from other clubs, but the situation has now shifted.
So, Mateta will continue to play for Crystal Palace at least under the current contract terms. Still, the striker’s desire to leave hasn’t faded, making his future in London one of the intriguing transfer stories to watch.
Jan Novak
Dailysports's expert
