Wilfried Zaha, the Ivorian winger who became a Crystal Palace icon, recently opened up about the possibility of returning to Selhurst Park—and his response was both candid and introspective. Now 32 years old and playing abroad, Zaha acknowledged that while his connection to Palace remains strong, he has no intention of tarnishing the legacy he built during his time in South London.
“I’m Not Trying to Go Back When I’ve Got No Legs”
When asked about a potential return to Crystal Palace, Zaha didn’t shy away from the reality of his situation.
“I’ll be honest. I’m 32 now. I’m not one of those guys that are trying to go back to a team when I’ve got no legs,” he admitted. His statement reflects a self-awareness that many players avoid confronting—the natural decline that comes with age and the risk of returning as a diminished version of oneself.
Zaha’s prime years were spent terrorizing Premier League defenses in a Palace shirt, earning him legendary status among the Eagles’ faithful. But rather than clinging to nostalgia, he seems determined to preserve the memories of his peak performances rather than risk an underwhelming comeback.
