Ivory Coast forward Evann Guessand returns to Crystal Palace on season-long loan

Evann Guessand has officially returned to Crystal Palace on a season-long loan from Aston Villa, with the deal including an option for the Eagles to make the move permanent.

The 25-year-old Ivory Coast international is back at Selhurst Park following a successful loan spell with the Premier League club during the second half of last season.

Guessand joined Crystal Palace midway through the previous campaign and quickly adapted to the demands of the Premier League, establishing himself as an important member of the squad.

His performances proved particularly valuable as Palace enjoyed a memorable campaign, culminating in a historic triumph in the UEFA Conference League in May.

The Ivorian forward played his part in the Eagles’ European success and left a strong impression during his initial spell, convincing the club to bring him back for another season.

Crystal Palace have now reached an agreement with Aston Villa for Guessand to return on loan, with the deal also containing an option for the South London outfit to make the transfer permanent at the end of the season.

The arrangement gives Guessand another opportunity to continue his development at a club where he has already made a positive impact, while Palace will have the chance to assess his performances over a full campaign before deciding whether to secure his services on a permanent basis.

For Guessand, the move represents a chance to build on the momentum from his first spell and further establish himself in the Premier League.

Following the completion of his return to South London, the Ivory Coast international expressed his delight at rejoining the Eagles and revealed his desire to create more memorable moments with the club.

“I’m so happy to be here. I already have good memories here – but I think it’s only the beginning. I hope many more are coming.”

Guessand will now turn his attention to the new campaign as Crystal Palace look to build on their historic European success and compete strongly across domestic and continental competitions.

His return is expected to provide Palace with another attacking option as the club prepares for a demanding season, with the Ivorian keen to repay the faith shown in him and continue where he left off during his previous spell.