Wilfried Zaha Counters Jean-Philippe Mateta’s Comments in Ex-Crystal Palace Teammates’ Clash
Wilfried Zaha has publicly responded to comments made by his former Crystal Palace teammate, Jean-Philippe Mateta, regarding doubt over Mateta’s ability to reach the national team level. The controversy arose after Mateta’s debut match for France, where he scored in a draw against Iceland.
Background of the Dispute
During Mateta’s first start for France, the striker claimed that while at Crystal Palace, Zaha and others expressed skepticism about his chances of making the national team. Mateta recounted this experience in an interview, stating, “They said that I was mad to think about the France team when I wasn’t even playing at Crystal Palace.”
Zaha’s Response
In a video shared on social media, Zaha took issue with Mateta’s portrayal of their interactions. He stated, “I’m sorry but my head’s on fire. I’ve got to clear up this Mateta situation because he doesn’t want to.” Zaha emphasized that there was no malice behind their lighthearted banter.
- Zaha described the comments as “disgusting” and clarified that the conversation that took place involved friends joking about Mateta’s aspirations.
- He expressed confusion as to why Mateta chose to single him out when multiple players were present during the discussion.
- Zaha recounted congratulating Mateta on his recent achievements, highlighting his support for his former teammate.
Mateta’s Intent
Despite the fallout, Sky Sports News has reported that Mateta did not intend to disrespect Zaha. This revelation adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, suggesting miscommunication rather than animosity between the two players.
In conclusion, the exchange between Zaha and Mateta reflects the intricacies of professional relationships in football. As both players navigate their careers, this incident serves as a reminder of how quickly misunderstandings can arise in the competitive world of sports.
