Mateta Avoids Knee Surgery, Retains World Cup Hopes

G. E (Elbotola)

11 February 2026at21:47

Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta will not undergo knee surgery, coach Oliver Glasner has confirmed. This decision follows consultations which revealed the injury is less severe than initially feared, meaning the player could still participate in the upcoming World Cup despite an expected absence of several weeks.

The decision came after extensive consultations with several specialists who confirmed the knee injury was not as severe as anticipated. Mateta made the final decision in agreement with the medical staff and expert opinions. Coach Oliver Glasner stated: “The injury is not as serious as we feared. After consulting several specialists, we believe we can avoid surgery. He will be out for several weeks but does not need an operation, which is very positive. He made the final decision in agreement with the medical staff and expert opinions.”

The 28-year-old French international striker had been struggling with this injury during the first half of the season, which previously led to the cancellation of a potential £30 million transfer to AC Milan. Mateta now needs to impress coach Didier Deschamps and his staff to be selected for the 2026 World Cup. He has three caps for France and has scored two goals in World Cup qualifiers.

Q&A

Why did Jean-Philippe Mateta avoid knee surgery?

Jean-Philippe Mateta avoided knee surgery because extensive consultations with several specialists confirmed his knee injury was not as severe as initially feared, a decision he made with medical staff.

How does Mateta's injury decision impact his World Cup chances?

Avoiding surgery significantly boosts Jean-Philippe Mateta's chances for the 2026 World Cup, as he can now focus on recovery rather than a longer surgical rehabilitation, despite an expected absence of several weeks.