Wilfred Zaha has sent Crystal Palace fans an emotional message as he ends his over 10-year stay at Selhurst Park.
Zaha who plays as a winger for the Ivory Coast national team is joining Galatasaray on a free transfer after after spending eight seasons at Selhurst Park in a second spell at the club where he started his career. It brings an end to what has been a memorable spell for Zaha at Selhurst Park.
The 30-year-old sent a parting message to fans through a heartfelt Facebook Post on his official Facebook account. He wrote:
“A message to Palace fans 🙏
“As I start a new chapter I want to speak to you Palace fans who mean so much to me.
We have been through so much together, including 10 years in the Prem. There are loads of amazing memories that will stay in my head forever and also some really tough times along the way, but I’m so proud to have played my part in getting us to the Prem and helping to keep us there.
“I’ve been wearing the Palace shirt since I was 8 years old, it’s literally been my second skin and I always gave EVERYTHING when I wore it.
“You have all seen me angry and frustrated, but you’ve also seen my hunger and passion and the joy that I take from winning, and I hope that is the memory that lives on in the minds of Palace fans.
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“I grew up two roads away from the bright lights and loud crowds of Selhurst Park, having no idea that I would be at the centre of it all one day, and have the amazing journey I’ve had with this amazing club.
“So I would say to my 8 year old self, dream BIG and only you can kill your dream.
I want to thank Steve Parish, all of my teammates, coaches and the entire Palace fanbase for always believing in me and encouraging me to get to where I am today. I have been blessed to play in front of you and call you family from the day you accepted me.
“From the bottom of my heart, I’m forever grateful.
Wilf. ❤️💙.”
Despite interest from various clubs and a tempting offer to remain at Crystal Palace, Galatasaray managed to secure Zaha’s signature. Lazio, Fenerbahce, and Al-Nassr all attempted to sign him, while Palace presented a substantial £200,000 per week deal to extend his stay at Selhurst Park for another four years. However, Zaha chose Galatasaray, understanding that his wages there would be lower compared to what he could have earned in the Premier League or Saudi Arabia.
Zaha rejoined Crystal Palace on a permanent basis in 2015 after a loan spell from Manchester United. Although he originally emerged from the club’s academy, he was sold to United in 2013. However, his time at Old Trafford was challenging, and he ultimately returned to south London, where he played a pivotal role in helping Palace maintain their Premier League status ever since.
