Steve Mandanda’s move to Crystal Palace was something of a disaster.
An absolute Marseille hero at the time, his stock was so high that some in France thought he should get the nod over Hugo Lloris for the national team.
The French club had to let him go, besieged by financial problems, but just a few months later were taken over by their new US owner.
Injury and non selection were the story of the goalkeeper’s time at Crystal Palace. Sometimes it feels like the English club could sign countless stoppers over the next decade and still be starting Wayne Hennessey or Julián Speroni in 2029.
Mandanda’s stay in London did produce one positive for the footballer.
In an interview with L’Equipe, the 33 year old told the French newspaper that misery at Palace reminded him just how much he loves Marseille as a club and city.
That’s not to say everything is perfect right now: “I love this club. I adore this city. I understood it even more when I was at Crystal Palace. After that, what I do not accept either, it is that one questions my professionalism. It’s like these weight stories. But I know where it comes from.
“There is only one person who knows me perfectly: it’s me. I know who I am. I can handle myself. I’m a big boy. I sometimes expect more respect and consideration. Some have short memories. Everything you have done before is sometimes quickly swept away.”
Marseille are having a difficult season, and Mandanda’s poor form is one reason for that.
At least it’s sunny.
