Super Eagles attacking midfielder Christantus Uche has been omitted from Crystal Palace’s 24 man squad for the UEFA Europa Conference League knockout phase by the English Premier League club.
The 22 year old, who is on loan from Spanish side Getafe, did not make the list submitted to UEFA as Palace registered new signings Brennan Johnson, Jørgen Strand Larsen, and Evann Guessand instead.
Uche has found regular playing time hard to come by at Selhurst Park this season, struggling to break into manager Oliver Glasner’s first team plans and appearing primarily as a substitute. The Nigeria international scored once in four Conference League appearances before his removal from the squad.
Despite winning Palace’s Goal of the Month award for a spectacular strike against KuPS Kuopio in December, Uche’s prospects of triggering his loan to buy clause appear to have dimmed after limited minutes in both domestic and European campaigns.
Editorial
Being dropped from the Europa Conference League squad is a significant setback for Christantus Uche and highlights the challenges some Nigerian players face in European club football. Uche arrived at Crystal Palace with promise after impressing in Spain, but adapting to the demands of the Premier League and European competition has been difficult amidst fierce competition for places.
Footballers on loan often need consistent game time to develop and convince clubs to make permanent transfers. Uche’s situation shows how squad dynamics particularly after new signings arrive can drastically limit opportunities. For Nigerian supporters, this is a reminder of the importance of stability and consistent playing minutes for young internationals abroad. The upcoming domestic season and international windows could provide other chances for Uche to rebuild momentum.
Looking ahead, a managerial change or tactical shift at Crystal Palace may yet reopen doors for Uche. However, his omission now could also prompt discussions about a potential move elsewhere where first-team football is more assured.
Did You Know?
- Christantus Uche joined on loan from in September 2025.
- Uche has scored once in four Europa Conference League appearances this season before being dropped.
- He won Palace’s Goal of the Month** award for a strike against Finnish side KuPS Kuopio in December 2025.
- His loan deal contains a clause obligating Palace to buy him permanently if he reaches 10 starts this season a target he now looks unlikely to hit.
- Uche has been capped by the Super Eagles, Nigeria’s senior national team.
