Evann Guessand’s Crystal Palace loan faces January review

Crystal Palace could cut short Evann Guessand’s loan spell and return the Ivory Coast international to Aston Villa during the January transfer window, according to Football Insider.

The 25-year-old joined the Eagles on another temporary deal after spending last season with the club, but his position has become uncertain following a difficult start to the campaign.

Guessand has not featured in Crystal Palace’s past five matches and was left out of the club’s Europa League squad. His limited involvement comes after public criticism from manager Pierre Sage, who said the striker had not reached the level expected of him.

Mick Brown, a former Aston Villa scout, told Football Insider that a return to the Birmingham club could become an option if Guessand’s circumstances do not improve.

Brown believes the forward has fallen well down Sage’s pecking order. If Guessand is unable to restore his manager’s confidence, Crystal Palace may consider ending the loan when the transfer window reopens in January.

The situation represents a shift from the club’s previous thinking. Crystal Palace had considered signing Guessand permanently after his first loan spell, but ultimately chose to arrange another temporary move instead.

Guessand remains under contract with Aston Villa until 30 June 2030. His estimated market value is 25 million euros, while his annual salary is listed as 2,249,654 euros (1,462,275,100 FCFA).

He has made just two Premier League appearances for Crystal Palace this season, playing a total of 54 minutes.

Crystal Palace are due to face Nottingham Forest in the sixth round of the English league season next. That fixture could provide Guessand with an opportunity to change his situation, although there is no indication that he will be restored to the squad.