Jean-Philippe Mateta’s rise at Crystal Palace continues to draw attention, and the French striker is not hiding his ambitions after a breakthrough year. 

Following his first-ever call-up to the France national team, the 28-year-old has admitted that playing for a top English club is a natural goal. He believes that’s the case for any player with big aspirations, and is proud to be doing that with Crystal Palace.

“Every ambitious player wants that step,” he told RMC Sport. “When you join the national team and look around, you only see players who play in the Champions League and win major trophies. When you’re among the best, you naturally want to reach that level too.”

Mateta’s words come after a historic season for Crystal Palace, who lifted both the FA Cup and the Community Shield. The Eagles have carried that momentum into the new campaign, sitting sixth in the Premier League under a coach the striker described as “fantastic”.

“We’ve got a great group and an excellent manager. We try to follow everything he asks,” Mateta added.

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