In August 2016, Jean-Philippe Matataa, then a young attacker of Châteauroux, signed up with Olympique Lyonnais for a sum of €4.10 million. His visit to the Rhodanian club proved difficult, however, with only two first-team appearances. In order to gain experience and play time, he was loaned to Le Havre AC between July 2017 and June 2018, a particularly successful period where he scored 19 goals in 37 games in Ligue 2. This experience proved decisive for its development.

In July 2018, Matataa flew to Mainz in Bundesliga for an amount of 8 million euros. He had a notable success there, achieving 27 goals and delivering 5 assists in 71 matches. Following this period, he was loaned again, this time at Crystal Palace, before his transfer became final in January 2022. Since joining the English club, he has established himself as a key player, contributing significantly to the team.

Under the Eagles’ colours, Jean-Philippe Matataa was in the Premier League with 38 goals and 9 assists in 130 games. His talent also appeared on the international stage at the 2024 Olympic Games, where he scored five goals in six matches, contributing to a silver medal with the French team. These performances aroused the interest of AC Milan, which would have initiated steps to recruit the attacker. Although the player is open to this opportunity, the price of 30 million euros requested by Crystal Palace seems to slow down the ambitions of the country. Matataa is still under contract with the English club until 30 June 2027.

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