Crystal Palace boss Patrick Viera said it was Benteke’s decision to leave the club. The forward has signed for MLS side D.C. United.
He spent six seasons at Selhurst Park. However, in the past few seasons in the Premier League, he has struggled with his own injuries.
CHRISTIAN BENTEKE TRANSFER EXIT FULL STORY
The forward was likely to be in the squad against Arsenal. However, to everyone’s surprise, he was not even on the bench for the Eagles. Although, a piece of unexpected news just arrived before the game. Crystal Palace announced that the forward would leave the club after six years of service. The statement also confirmed that Christian Benteke was joining MLS side D.C.United.
The exit of the forward comes at a bizarre time. His exit was confirmed by the club just before the match against Arsenal. However, his sudden departure was somewhat expected. In recent seasons, the forward’s playing time at Crystal Palace has been limited to substitute appearances. Another reason is he has struggled with his own injuries in recent years.
IT WAS BENTEKE’S DECISION TO LEAVE CRYSTAL PALACE THIS SUMMER
The forward will now hope to make Roberto Martinez’s Belgium squad for the upcoming World Cup in Qatar. Palace boss Patrick Vierwa said it was the player’s decision to leave the club. He further added that “When players want to play, and you can’t guarantee them time or games, you have to let them go.“Christian spent six years at this football club, and he was fantastic for the football club.“
Viera also said in his build-up to the Arsenal match that his squad was lacking depth heading into the new season. He further said, “When you look at the squad, you can see that we’re a little bit short on numbers and experience,” the French manager added after the 2-0 defeat on Friday night. The manager also said there is no panic within the club to bring in players.
He also said that he will bring in players that will improve the club. The manager also added that the new summer signings need to be challenging the other players to work hard. Crystal Palace and Patrick Viera will be hoping for a better result and performance against Liverpool.
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