Eddie Nketiah’s debut season at Crystal Palace hasn’t gone as many hoped. After making a £30 million move from Arsenal in August 2024, expectations were high. Yet, the 25-year-old striker—born in England to Ghanaian parents—has found it hard to make his mark at Selhurst Park.

With just one Premier League goal in 24 appearances (only seven of which were starts), Nketiah’s numbers don’t reflect the effort he’s put in. But manager Oliver Glasner sees beyond the stats.

“It’s not time to sum up Eddie’s season now,” said Glasner. “But he’s so hard-working. Sometimes I feel a little bit sad for him, personally, when I see all his effort.”

The Austrian coach pointed to Palace’s recent clash with Newcastle United as an example of Nketiah’s misfortune.

“He came on when we were 5-0 down. It’s the worst situation you can have as a player. I had this once in my career—it’s not enjoyable. He had two or three chances and slipped just before scoring.”

Despite the challenges, Glasner remains confident that better days lie ahead for his striker.

“It looks like things haven’t gone well for him so far. But I see him every day. He keeps working. And there will come a day when he gets paid for all his effort.”

Nketiah’s lone Premier League goal came earlier this month in a 2-1 win over Brighton & Hove Albion. He’s also added two goals in the EFL Cup and one in the FA Cup, hinting that there’s still something to build on.

With Palace sitting comfortably mid-table, Glasner hopes to end the season on a high—and perhaps, give Nketiah the stage for a long-overdue breakthrough.