Evann Guessand has made it clear that he believes his Crystal Palace story is only getting started after returning to Selhurst Park for another season.
The 25-year-old forward has rejoined the Eagles from Aston Villa on a season-long loan, with Palace holding an option to make the deal permanent next summer. And Guessand couldn’t be happier to be back in south London.
“I’m so happy to be here.
“I already have good memories here – but I think it’s only the beginning. I hope many more are coming.”
Those words will certainly excite Palace supporters. Guessand only spent the second half of last season with the Eagles, but he already left with some unforgettable memories.
Evann Guessand wants more memories with Palace
Guessand joined Crystal Palace on loan in January and made 14 appearances before the end of the campaign, scoring twice.
His return comes after a unique season for the Ivorian. He became the first player to win two different European trophies in the same campaign, featuring for Aston Villa during their Europa League run before helping Palace lift the Conference League.
That meant Guessand finished the campaign with European silverware from both clubs.
His time at Villa had been more difficult individually. He had only joined the club from Nice last summer in a deal reported at £30m, but struggled to establish himself in Unai Emery’s side.
Guessand scored twice in 21 appearances across all competitions for Villa before moving to Palace in January.
The Eagles initially decided against making his loan permanent in July. However, the opportunity to bring him back quickly presented itself, and this time Palace have secured another season with an option to buy.
For Guessand, it’s another chance to show exactly what he can offer.
He has already experienced the Palace dressing room, played at Selhurst Park and lifted a European trophy with the club. Now he wants to build on that.
Palace believe there is more to come
Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish is clearly convinced that Guessand can make a bigger impact during his second spell.
“We’re thrilled to have the opportunity to welcome Evann back to Crystal Palace, after he gave us all a glimpse of his undoubted talent last season.”
Parish also believes the forward can play a role in another successful campaign.
“We believe he can help us to deliver similar success this year, as we look forward to another exciting season for the club.”
Guessand also arrives back at Palace after representing Ivory Coast at this summer’s World Cup. He made two appearances from the bench as his country exited in the round of 32.
Before his time in England, Guessand had spells with Nice, Nantes and Lausanne Sport.
Now, though, his attention is firmly back on Palace.
The Eagles have given him another opportunity to make his mark, and the option to buy means this loan could eventually become a permanent reunion.
