Crystal Palace fans were left scratching their heads on Thursday as star midfielder Eberechi Eze was conspicuously absent from the squad for their Europa Conference League playoff against Fredrikstad.
The reason? A high-profile transfer move to Arsenal that’s been brewing behind the scenes.
Manager Confirms Eze Will Miss the Game
Ahead of the fixture, there was speculation about whether Eze might feature.
But manager Oliver Glasner put those rumors to rest, confirming that the England international would not play.
When the team sheet was released, Glasner’s words were proven correct—Eze was nowhere to be found.
The Big Transfer Shake-Up
The decision to leave Eze out of the squad has sparked questions.
Was it the manager’s call, the player’s request, or a directive from higher-ups like chairman Steve Parish? The move to Arsenal is reportedly worth over £60 million, making it one of the club’s most lucrative transfers in recent memory.
Crystal Palace’s European Plans
Palace are hosting Fredrikstad at Selhurst Park for the first leg of their Europa Conference League playoff, with the return leg scheduled for August 28.
By then, Eze is expected to have completed his move to Arsenal, the team he supported as a youngster.
Arsenal Moves in After Spurs Talks
Tottenham had been negotiating with Palace for Eze for the past 10 days, aiming for a £55 million deal plus add-ons.
But an injury to Arsenal’s Kai Havertz changed the landscape. The Gunners, suddenly in need of attacking options, shifted their attention to Eze.
How Arsenal Sealed the Deal
Arsenal had long seen Eze as a target and knew he preferred a move to the Emirates.
Initially, after spending £63 million on Viktor Gyokeres, Arsenal wanted to focus on outgoing transfers. Havertz’s injury, however, accelerated the process.
Sporting director Andrea Berta and manager Mikel Arteta had met with Eze last month, convincing him of the move—but no offer materialized at the time.
Release Clause and Negotiations
Eze’s £60 million release clause, plus £8 million in potential bonuses, expired last week.
Spurs had reportedly met Palace’s demands and agreed terms with Eze on Wednesday, but Palace wanted him available for Thursday’s European clash.
Arsenal swooped in the same day, ensuring Eze would sit out to avoid injury and secure his dream transfer.
Looking Ahead
With the Europa Conference League first leg behind them, Palace can turn their attention to the return fixture.
Meanwhile, Eze is poised to join Arsenal, adding a new dimension to their attack as the Premier League season unfolds.
