Crystal Palace finds themselves in a tricky spot this summer.
After their surprise FA Cup win, the club was set to play in the Europa League, but things got complicated due to multi-ownership rules.
Palace officials, led by chairman Steve Parish, took the fight to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Switzerland, battling UEFA, Nottingham Forest, and Lyon to overturn a shocking demotion from the Europa League to the Conference League.
Nervous Wait for CAS Verdict Could Change Palace’s Season
A panel of three senior lawyers is reviewing the case, with their decision expected before the end of Monday.
This leaves Palace’s players, staff, and fans anxiously waiting through the weekend to learn whether the club will keep their spot in Europe’s second-tier competition or be pushed down to the third.
Star Players Face Uncertain Futures as Clubs Circle
While the club’s European fate remains undecided, Palace are also battling to keep hold of key players.
Captain Marc Guehi, as well as forwards Eberechi Eze and Jean-Philippe Mateta, have all been linked with moves away from Selhurst Park this summer.
The uncertainty around the club’s status only adds fuel to the fire.
Atalanta Emerges as Front-Runner to Sign Jean-Philippe Mateta
According to Football Italia, Atalanta — a team guaranteed to play in the Champions League this season — has set their sights on Mateta.
The Italian side is reportedly preparing a £34.6 million bid for the Crystal Palace striker, who has netted 46 goals in 152 appearances since joining the Eagles.
Palace Prepares for Community Shield Clash With Liverpool Amid Off-Field Drama
This Sunday, Palace face Liverpool at Wembley in the Community Shield, looking to bag the first silverware of the new season.
For now, the focus is on football, but off the pitch, decisions about players’ futures and the club’s European campaign loom large.
Forward Moves and Transfer Buzz Stir the Market
Atalanta has confirmed the transfer of Mateo Retegui to Al-Qadsiyah, freeing up funds to pursue new signings.
Ademola Lookman, another key player for Atalanta since 2022, has handed in a transfer request, citing poor treatment and broken promises at the club, which could give Atalanta some wiggle room in the transfer market.
Mateta’s Future Still Up in the Air Despite Positive Talks
Mateta has also attracted interest from other big clubs, including Manchester United, Aston Villa, and Marseille.
Although he’s held positive talks about staying at Palace, nothing is finalized yet, leaving fans wondering where the forward will end up.