Erdal Rakip’s move to Crystal Palace, which is expected to be announced today, is a surprising one.
Moving from Malmo to Benfica at the end of his contract, Rakip will only be with Crystal Palace until the end of the season, and the club don’t have any kind of buying option.
It’s a big jump from Swedish football to the Premier League, and it’ll be a pleasant surprise if Rakip can quickly play a meaningful role for Roy Hodgson’s side.
We’re not the only ones surprised, at least according to A Bola, because Rakip himself is said to be a bit taken aback.
The Portuguese newspaper say he expected to be part of Benfica’s squad for the second half the season and was ‘surprised’ to learn Rui Vitória wouldn’t be counting on him.
That’s why he’s agreed to join Crystal Palace.
Benfica have great options in midfield and Rakip playing a part was surely only going to be likely with sales. Perhaps the 21 year old should have found out more about his potential role before signing for the Portuguese champions.
