Jean-Philippe Mateta’s World Cup dream in doubt after failed AC Milan medical

Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta is debating whether to undergo knee surgery after seeing his deadline day move to AC Milan collapse due to a failed medical.

The biggest saga of the Premier League’s winter transfer window looked set for a happy ending for Mateta when AC Milan saw their £26 million bid accepted by Palace.

The Frenchman had been looking to leave Selhurst Park this winter after handing in a transfer request a few weeks earlier.

However, Mateta’s move to the San Siro broke down with the 28-year-old failing his medical with the Italian giants.

The Palace striker now has a huge decision with the World Cup fast approaching.

Knee problems hamper Mateta’s AC Milan move

AC Milan decided to pull out of the deal after Mateta’s medical highlighted problems with the Mateta’s knee.

Milan officials were aware of the issue before they opened negotiations with the Eagles, with Palace sharing the striker’s medical records with the Italian club on Saturday.

The Rossoneri also sent their own doctor to Selhurst Park to inspect the Frenchman’s fitness issues.

Mateta had been playing through injury for several months after suffering a knee problem back in November.

BREAKING: Jean Philippe Mateta will NOT join AC Milan following double session of medical tests today.

Crystal Palace have been informed. ❌

The player wanted the move but it won’t happen. pic.twitter.com/AiHs6ssfS1

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 2, 2026

Mateta’s World Cup hopes in jeopardy

After seeing his move to AC Milan breakdown, Sky Sports says Mateta is considering surgery in order to fix the knee injury he has been struggling with for most of the season.

Whilst the Frenchman will remain with Palace until the summer at least, it remains to be seen whether Mateta will return to Oliver Glasner’s starting line-up before the end of the season.

Palace and Mateta are currently considering their options, with the club torn between nursing Mateta’s injury or putting the striker under the knife, which could mean several months on the sidelines.

With the World Cup fast approaching, Mateta’s hopes of securing a place in the France squad for the tournament may be a key factor in the Frenchman’s decision.

Will Mateta play for Palace again this season?

The Palace strike appeared to lash out at the club as his AC Milan move stuttered, whilst the Eagles finalised the signing of Mateta’s replacement, Jorgen Strand Larsen, from Wolves.

In a post on Instagram that has since been removed, the Frenchman posted a fed-up emoji and unfollowed Palace, according to Sky Sports.

Amid Mateta’s injury concerns and Palace’s signing of Larsen, it remains to be seen if the Frenchman has played his last game at Selhurst Park.