6 years after leaving Crystal Palace, £9m flop is better than Strand Larsen

The saying “you either die a hero or live long enough to become the villain” feels fitting for Jean-Philippe Mateta. Had he ended his Crystal Palace FC journey after last season’s Wembley appearance, his reputation might still be untarnished.

Instead, the striker now finds himself at the centre of frustration among supporters at Selhurst Park. Once celebrated with chants and fanfare, his return from injury — following a failed January move — was met with boos rather than cheers.

In contrast, Jørgen Strand Larsen has stepped into the spotlight. The forward has begun to justify his hefty £48 million transfer fee, showing promising signs since arriving in January.

Strand Larsen vs Mateta: Who deserves to start?

As Mateta’s popularity fades in South London, Palace supporters appear to be embracing a new focal point in Strand Larsen.

The Norwegian has scored three goals in his first six Premier League appearances, including one against rivals Tottenham Hotspur FC.
Meanwhile, Mateta’s struggles in front of goal predate his attempted departure.

He has managed just one goal in his last 11 league games and only eight across the entire season — a return that underlines his dip in form.
Elsewhere, comparisons have also been drawn with Alexander Sørloth, who has flourished since leaving Palace.

In hindsight, the club’s failure to give him a proper opportunity has proven costly.
While some may argue Sørloth benefits from playing in a stronger team, the statistics suggest otherwise.

Compared to Mateta — who has underperformed his expected goals (xG) by more than four — and Strand Larsen, who is performing as expected, Sørloth has exceeded his xG by nearly three goals.
The contrast is clear: Sørloth has been clinical in front of goal, while Palace’s current striking options have struggled to convert their chances.