Crystal Palace defender Jaydee Canvot has revealed why joining the Eagles made sense despite widespread doubts, as the 19-year-old establishes himself in the Premier League following Marc Guehi’s departure.
Speaking to Foot Mercato, Canvot explained how guaranteed playing time and Oliver Glasner’s project convinced him to make the move.
Canvot has been speaking about life at Crystal Palace as he starts to establish himself as Marc Guehi’s replacement at Selhurst Park.
He joined the Eagles from Toulouse in France in September for around €23m. At the time he was seen as the replacement for Marc Guehi, who had been heavily linked with an exit throughout last summer.
That exit didn’t come about until the January transfer window, when the England international joined Manchester City. His departure opened the door for Canvot, who has now played every minute of Palace’s last three Premier League games. That includes a standout performance in the 3-1 win over Tottenham.
Why Crystal Palace Appealed to Canvot
The move to Crystal Palace was not the path that many had expected for the defender. Indeed, some questioned the move when it happened. The 19-year-old didn’t listen to any of that, though.
“The project presented to me was very simple: You’ll play from the first season,” he said.
“I was told I would get playing time, and we’re talking about a club that has produced players like Olise, Eze, and other young talents in recent years.
“Naturally, that appealed to me. I also spoke with coach Glasner: a top coach. He had done some great things with his previous clubs, especially in Frankfurt where he won the Europa League. For me, everything was looking good.
“I spent a year at Toulouse and then went straight to the Premier League. For some, it might have seemed like an illogical choice, because they would have gone to Germany, a league that’s good for French players and youngsters. But the Premier League is what I wanted.”
Learning From Guehi and Studying Saliba
Guehi’s departure in January created an immediate opportunity for Canvot, but also significant pressure. The former Palace captain had led the club to their first major trophy. He also established himself as one of the league’s most reliable centre-backs at the club.
Guehi was more than willing to offer his advice to the man who is seen as his replacement, something Canvot appreciates.
“Marc is a top player. He’s incredibly good,” he added.
“He talked to me a lot, he gave me advice since we’re both central defenders. He’s the defender I watch the most, along with William Saliba. They’re the ones whose style is most similar to mine.”
Canvot has started each of Palace’s last three league games since Guehi’s exit. The defender has completed the full 90 minutes on every occasion.
He is not being asked to replace his predecessor overnight, but the responsibility he is already carrying suggests Crystal Palace’s long‑term planning is quietly taking shape.
Despite his young age, plenty of promise is already on display and Eagles fans have another player to be hopeful about.
