Jean-Philippe Mateta has assured that there is no resentment towards his former Crystal Palace teammate, Wilfried Zaha, after having resolved their differences privately.
The Eagles striker, who received his first call-up to the senior France national team this month and scored on his debut in the 2-2 draw against Iceland, suggested in an interview with L’Equipe earlier this month that “teammates like Wilfried Zaha” “laughed” at his ambitions to represent his country.
Zaha, who left Palace in 2023 and now plays for Charlotte FC of the MLS, on loan from Galatasaray, denied those claims, stating that some misinterpretation had occurred.
Mateta, speaking before Thursday’s Conference League clash with AEK Larnaca at Selhurst Park, said that they have both already resolved the situation.
The Frenchman, who scored a hat-trick in the 3-3 draw against Bournemouth in the Premier League on Saturday, stated this. The 28-year-old player is in third place in the Premier League’s top scorer table with five goals in eight games so far this season.I spoke with him. Everything is fine.
Jean-Philippe Mateta
Zaha responds to Mateta about the story of the call-up to France
Mateta also spoke of his pride at getting his first call-up with the senior France national team.I am focused on my season. I’m only thinking about Thursday’s match.
Jean-Philippe Mateta
I am very proud of myself. I am very happy. I think I deserved it because I train very hard with the whole team. It’s a dream come true and I hope to be called up again.
Jean-Philippe Mateta
