Crystal Palace Old Boys Shine: Eze and Olise Star Across Europe

Crystal Palace old boys were the talk of European football this weekend, as Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise stole headlines with match-winning performances for Arsenal and Bayern Munich respectively. Their exploits not only highlight their growth since leaving Selhurst Park but also underline the remarkable impact former Palace players are having at the highest level.

Crystal Palace Old Boys Eze and Olise Dominate the Headlines

The resumption of club football following the November international break delivered a dramatic weekend, but few stories matched the excitement generated by the Crystal Palace old boys. Eberechi Eze, who almost joined Tottenham in August, instead donned Arsenal colors and produced a sensational hat-trick in the North London derby. His clinical finishing and creative flair from midfield helped Arsenal secure a crucial win, tightening their grip atop the Premier League table and leaving Spurs fans rueing what might have been.

Meanwhile, Michael Olise’s star continues to ascend in Germany. Since joining Bayern Munich in the summer, Olise has become one of Europe’s most creative attackers. Against Freiburg, Bayern found themselves two goals down just 17 minutes in. Olise led the comeback, providing an assist, scoring the equalizer, and orchestrating two more goals before capping the rout with a sublime solo finish. His tally now stands at 22 goal contributions in 23 appearances for club and country this season, underlining his superstar credentials.

Premier League Drama: Liverpool and Manchester City Stumble

For Liverpool, the weekend brought misery as the reigning champions suffered a 3-0 defeat at home to Nottingham Forest, deepening their struggles under Arne Slot. The boos from Anfield echoed the uncertainty around the squad’s direction, with big-money signing Alexander Isak still searching for form. Virgil van Dijk admitted the Reds are in a “mess,” and questions persist regarding Slot’s future.

Manchester City, too, endured frustration. Phil Foden missed key chances in a loss to Newcastle, a result that damages both City’s title ambitions and Foden’s hopes of a regular England starting place. With rivals stepping up, City must quickly regroup to remain in the hunt.

Crystal Palace Old Boys Inspire Across Europe

The influence of Crystal Palace old boys extended beyond England. Eze and Olise’s exploits set the tone for a weekend where former Palace players proved decisive in Europe’s elite competitions. Their progress reflects not only on their individual abilities but also on Palace’s development pathway, now recognized as a springboard to the highest levels.

Barcelona Celebrate Homecoming, Inter Falter in Milan Derby

Elsewhere, Barcelona marked their return to Camp Nou with a resounding 4-0 win over Athletic Club, reigniting their La Liga title chase. In Italy, Inter’s Hakan Calhanoglu missed a crucial penalty in the Milan derby, allowing AC Milan to leapfrog their rivals into second place as the Rossoneri continue their resurgence under Massimiliano Allegri.

Conte’s Napoli Return to Winning Ways

Antonio Conte’s Napoli answered critics with an emphatic 3-1 victory over Atalanta, employing a new tactical setup that revitalized their attack. Conte praised the strong bond with his players, dismissing concerns about team chemistry and reaffirming his ambitions in Serie A.

Bundesliga and Eredivisie: Mixed Fortunes

Borussia Dortmund’s struggles continued as they surrendered another late lead, drawing with Stuttgart and falling further behind title favorites Bayern Munich. In the Netherlands, Robin van Persie’s Feyenoord saw a home loss to NEC derail their title challenge, despite the emotional inclusion of his son Shaqueel in the squad for the first time.

Pogba’s Emotional Return in Ligue 1

Paul Pogba’s long-awaited comeback for Monaco was a rare bright spot in a 4-1 defeat to Rennes. Returning from suspension and injury, Pogba’s brief appearance was significant, symbolizing resilience and hope for a fresh start in Ligue 1.

Crystal Palace Old Boys Set the Standard

The performances of Eze and Olise encapsulate the growing trend of former Crystal Palace stars making their mark across Europe’s top leagues. Their journeys from Selhurst Park to the continental stage are a testament to talent, ambition, and adaptability. For supporters and scouts alike, their success signals that Palace alumni are a force to be reckoned with.

Opinion: Eze and Olise Prove Palace’s Rising Influence

The impact of these Crystal Palace old boys this weekend cannot be overstated. Eze’s match-winning performance for Arsenal and Olise’s dazzling display for Bayern Munich highlight the emerging global influence of Selhurst Park graduates. As the Champions League clash between Bayern and Arsenal looms, it’s clear that the path from Crystal Palace to European superstardom is no longer exceptional—it’s becoming expected. For more news on players making waves across Europe, visit for more news.