Qudus SalihuThe atmosphere around Selhurst Park has reached a fever pitch following Oliver Glasner’s latest bombshell. The Crystal Palace manager has officially confirmed that the club is in active discussions with a “former hero” regarding a sensational return to South London this January. While Glasner remained tight-lipped on the specific identity, the “hero” in question is widely understood to be none other than Wilfried Zaha.
After a grueling December schedule that has seen the Eagles battle through a defensive injury crisis and a packed UEFA Conference League calendar, the prospect of a veteran spark has sent the Palace faithful into a frenzy. Glasner, fresh off leading the club to its first-ever major trophy in the 2024-25 FA Cup, is looking to bolster his squad for a deep European run and a push for the Premier League top four. “We are looking for players who understand the DNA of this club,” Glasner told reporters. “I have spoken with a legend of this stadium. The door is open, and the emotion is there.”
Social media has erupted since the news broke, with supporters desperate to see the “King of Selhurst” back in the famous red and blue stripes. Following the summer departure of Eberechi Eze, fans have been longing for a talismanic figure to lead the line alongside the in-form Jean-Philippe Mateta. For Zaha, who has spent the last year abroad with Galatasaray and Lyon, the move represents a chance for an emotional homecoming. Despite FIFA regulations previously complicating a mid-season switch, it appears the path is finally clearing for a “Last Dance” at the ground where he made his name.
If the deal is finalized, the former hero could be registered in time for the high-stakes Carabao Cup quarter-final against Arsenal or the upcoming Conference League knockout rounds. With the squad currently stretched thin by injuries to stars like Daniel Munoz and Daichi Kamada, this comeback isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s a tactical masterstroke to keep Palace’s historic season on track. The fans are ready, the manager is waiting, and the stage is set for one of the most emotional returns in Premier League history.
Rabiu Aminu
