Maxence Lacroix reacts to JP Mateta’s ‘special’ message after huge Crystal Palace exit news
Jean-Phillipe Mateta’s future looks to have been decided, and his recent message on social media caught the eye of Crystal Palace teammate Maxence Lacroix.
Mateta has become a cult hero at Palace over the past couple of years, scoring 30 Premier League goals across the last two campaigns.
The French striker helped the Eagles to their first-ever major trophy in May, as they beat Manchester City 1-0 in the FA Cup final.
It hasn’t always been plain sailing for the 28-year-old in South London however, as he struggled to consistently score goals at the beginning of his Palace career, but he has now found his feet in the Premier League.
Mateta to stay at Crystal Palace
When you are scoring goals at the rate that Mateta has been in the past 18 months, there is always going to be attention from other clubs.
| Season | Games | Goals | Assists |
| 2024/25 | 37 | 14 | 2 |
| 2023/24 | 36 | 16 | 5 |
Earlier this month, it was reported that Manchester United were keeping tabs on the Frenchman, as they look to solve their striker issues.
However, former Man United chief scout Mick Brown revealed last week (22 June) that Mateta is close to signing a new contract at Crystal Palace, quelling any rumours of a move to Old Trafford.
Amid the good news for Eagles fans, the forward took to Instagram, sharing photos of his training in Rio de Janeiro with the caption: “Building something special.”
Defender Lacroix liked the post to show support for his teammate.
Palace must hold onto key players
Football Insider Verdict
Despite the good news regarding their star striker, Palace are still fighting to keep hold of a number of their other key players.
As well as their FA Cup success, Oliver Glasner’s side finished 12th last season in the Premier League and are looking to improve and progress in the upcoming campaign.
However, captain Marc Guehi has been heavily linked to Liverpool, which would be a hammer blow to the Eagles.
Guehi has just 12 months left on his current contract, which may force Steve Parish to cash in this summer, rather than risk losing him on a free next year.
To make matters worse, Eberechi Eze is a target for both Tottenham and Arsenal, with German giants Bayern Munich also interested in the England international.