Hodgson’s Masterstroke: Retaining Palace’s Crown Jewels
In a summer where Premier League clubs splashed over £2 billion on new signings, Crystal Palace‘s most significant business might just be what they didn’t do – sell Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise. As revealed in an exclusive Krikya interview with veteran manager Roy Hodgson, keeping these two creative maestros represents far more than just squad retention—it’s a declaration of ambition from a club often seen as a stepping stone for emerging talent.
The Transfer Saga That Never Was
Olise’s Chelsea Near-Miss
At just 21 years old, Michael Olise became the subject of a fierce tug-of-war between Palace and Chelsea. The Blues activated his £35 million release clause in August, only for the French U21 international to shock everyone by signing a new four-year deal at Selhurst Park.
“We presented the footballing arguments,” Hodgson told Krikya. “Regular starts, being the focal point of our attack, his development pathway—but ultimately this was Michael’s mature decision. He recognized what we’re building here.”
Statistical analysis shows why top clubs covet Olise:
- 11 assists last season (2nd among U23 Premier League players)
- Created 2.3 chances per 90 minutes
- Completed 84% of dribbles attempted
Olise’s decision to stay shocked many but demonstrates Palace’s growing pull
Eze’s Rising Stock
While Olise dominated headlines, Eberechi Eze quietly attracted interest from Manchester City. The 25-year-old’s England debut in June marked his arrival as a genuine Premier League star.
“Ebere gives us something special,” Hodgson emphasized. “When he receives the ball between lines, entire defenses shift. For a club like ours to have three England internationals [including Marc Guehi and Sam Johnstone] shows our progress.”
Tactical Synergy: More Than The Sum of Their Parts
What makes Palace‘s retention so significant isn’t just individual quality—it’s their almost telepathic partnership:
2022/23 Combined Impact:
- 18 goals
- 15 assists
- 4.7 key passes per game
- 7.3 successful dribbles per match
“They complement each other perfectly,” noted former Palace striker Clinton Morrison in our Krikya roundtable. “Olise’s crossing precision meets Eze’s ball-carrying. Defenses can’t focus on one without the other exploiting space.”
The Hodgson Factor
At 76, the Premier League’s oldest manager is proving age brings wisdom. His 4-2-3-1 system maximizes both players:
- Olise: Hugs the right touchline, cutting inside onto his left foot
- Eze: Free-roaming #10 role, linking midfield and attack
- Synergy: Diagonal switches exploit overloads
“We’re not just a selling club,” Hodgson asserted. “The board showed ambition by rejecting big offers. Now we must build around this core.”
Looking Ahead: Palace’s New Era
With Dean Henderson adding competition in goal and a settled defensive unit, Palace have their most balanced squad in years. As Hodgson prepares to face Wolves’ Gary O’Neil—a manager 33 years his junior—the message is clear: this isn’t your older brother’s Crystal Palace.
For Krikya readers, the takeaway is unmistakable: by retaining their crown jewels and adding smart pieces, the Eagles are poised to soar higher than ever before. The Premier League has been warned—South London is brewing something special.
Who do you think will benefit more from Palace keeping their stars—Eze, Olise, or the club itself? Share your thoughts below and follow Krikya for more in-depth Premier League analysis.
