Eberechi Eze, Marc Guehi. (Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images)
Crystal Palace made history over the weekend as they beat Manchester City 1-0 at Wembley to win the FA Cup and clinch their first-ever major piece of silverware.
Eberechi Eze was the hero on the day, sweeping home the only goal of the game in the 16th minute as Oliver Glasner’s side stunned the reigning champions and capped off a remarkable season.
It wasn’t all good news, though. Palace lost two of their biggest stars—captain Marc Guehi and midfielder Adam Wharton—both of whom were sent to hospital after the final whistle.
Guehi was withdrawn midway through the second half after taking a blow to the eye. He was still able to lead his team up the famous Wembley steps to lift the trophy, but was later taken to hospital in an ambulance with concerns he had suffered a fractured eye socket. He spent the night under observation before being discharged on Sunday. His availability for Palace’s final two Premier League matches—against Liverpool and Wolves—is currently uncertain.
Wharton also ended up in hospital after being struck on the back of the head by a fierce shot from Kevin De Bruyne. The young midfielder underwent precautionary concussion checks and has been ruled out of the club’s remaining fixtures as a result.
Guehi Set for Summer Exit
If Guehi doesn’t feature again this season, the FA Cup final could prove to be his last appearance in a Palace shirt. The England international, who is under contract until 2026, is expected to leave Selhurst Park this summer.
Despite interest from Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Chelsea in recent windows, Palace resisted bids last year and again in January. However, according to The Evening Standard’s Dom Smith, there is now “no prospect” of him signing a new deal, meaning his Palace career is now all but over.
Palace are planning a busy summer in the transfer market. Glasner is expected to bring in two centre-backs to replace Guehi and strengthen the squad for next season, as the club prepares for a Europa League campaign after securing European qualification with their FA Cup win.
They are also targeting at least two new forwards, with plans for a major squad overhaul.
Guehi—described as “exceptional” by former England goalkeeper Joe Hart—will be a big loss if and when he moves on.
About the Author
