Jean-Philippe Mateta has insisted his failed move to AC Milan is firmly behind him, despite fresh speculation linking the Crystal Palace striker with a transfer to Italy this summer.
The French forward came close to joining Milan during the January transfer window before concerns over a knee issue reportedly caused the deal to collapse. Several months later, Mateta appears focused on very different priorities.
Speaking while on international duty with France, the Crystal Palace star suggested he has little interest in revisiting what might have been.
Mateta addresses collapsed Milan transfer
The 28-year-old endured a frustrating period after the proposed move broke down, spending more than a month sidelined before eventually returning towards the end of the season.
However, he finished the campaign strongly, most notably scoring the winning goal in Crystal Palace’s Europa Conference League final triumph.
Recent reports have suggested Milan could reignite their interest, particularly if Oliver Glasner emerges as the club’s next manager. The Austrian has played a major role in Mateta’s resurgence at Selhurst Park and is widely credited with helping transform the striker’s career.
Yet Mateta’s latest comments offered little encouragement to those hoping for an immediate transfer breakthrough.
“That was a strange period for me, and by no means an easy one.
“There was that chance to go to Milan, but that’s in the past now, and I don’t know what would have happened if I’d gone to Italy.”
— Jean-Philippe Mateta, via Milan News
France now the priority
Rather than discussing club matters, Mateta made it clear his focus is currently on France’s World Cup campaign.
The striker admitted that returning from injury in time to impress Didier Deschamps became his primary motivation during rehabilitation.
“Today I’m here with France and my only focus is on the national team.
“After the injury, the only thing on my mind was the date of my return.”
— Jean-Philippe Mateta, via Milan News
His determination paid off, with the forward securing a place in the national team squad after working his way back to full fitness.
Crystal Palace career transformed under Glasner
Mateta also took time to acknowledge Crystal Palace’s role in his development.
After struggling for consistency during the early stages of his time in south London, the striker has evolved into one of the club’s most important players.
Under Glasner, his form has reached a new level. The Frenchman has registered 49 goals in 109 appearances during the Austrian’s tenure, becoming a central figure in Palace’s attacking plans.
Having followed Crystal Palace’s rise under Glasner, few players have benefited more from the manager’s arrival than Mateta. Increased confidence, tactical clarity and regular minutes have all contributed to his transformation.
That progress may explain why interest from clubs such as Milan continues to resurface.
“I have to thank Crystal Palace.
“Later on I played a lot more and that allowed me to develop and gain confidence.”
— Jean-Philippe Mateta, via Milan News
Key Points
- Jean-Philippe Mateta says his failed Milan move is now in the past.
- The transfer collapsed during the January window.
- The Crystal Palace striker is focused on France's World Cup campaign.
- Oliver Glasner's links to Milan have fuelled fresh speculation.
- Mateta has credited Crystal Palace for his development.
What’s Next?
While Mateta's immediate focus remains on international duty, speculation surrounding his club future is unlikely to disappear. Milan's managerial situation could prove significant if Glasner becomes a serious candidate, although there is currently no indication that negotiations are underway.
For now, the striker appears content to concentrate on France and postpone any decisions about his long-term future until after the tournament.
Would Jean-Philippe Mateta be a good fit for AC Milan, or should Crystal Palace do everything possible to keep their star striker?
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