Wilfried Zaha’s challenging journey: from Crystal Palace glory to Lyon struggles

Wilfried Zaha, once celebrated as a Crystal Palace icon, faces a turbulent chapter in his career following a difficult spell at Galatasaray and an underwhelming loan move to Olympique Lyonnais.

Zaha left Palace in 2023 after 90 goals in 458 appearances, seeking new challenges at Galatasaray, where he hoped to shine on the Champions League stage.

However, limited opportunities, coupled with fierce competition from Mauro Icardi and Dries Mertens, curtailed his impact, leaving him with 10 goals in 43 appearances.

In August 2024, Zaha joined Lyon on loan, aiming to reignite his form.

But Ligue 1 has proven challenging, with the Ivorian struggling to adapt.

In five games, he has failed to score, prompting frustration from Lyon coach Pierre Sage.

We recruited Wilfried Zaha, so we would like to have Wilfried Zaha,” Sage remarked, emphasizing the need for focus and commitment.

Disciplinary issues have compounded Zaha’s difficulties, including lateness and missed training sessions, resulting in exclusion from key matches.

Reports suggest Lyon may terminate his loan, citing financial constraints and limited impact.

Galatasaray has outlined conditions for such a move, including compensation or a transfer outside Europe, as Zaha cannot represent another UEFA club this season.

Once revered at Selhurst Park, Zaha now faces uncertainty in his bid to rediscover the form that made him a Premier League star.