“I liked what I saw!” – Roy Hodgson backs Crystal Palace signing to be a big success

ESPN Brasil today features an interesting interview with Crystal Palace manager Roy Hodgson.

With the Eagles having just signed Matheus França from Flamengo on a €20m deal, the outlet wanted to know more about how the club found out about the Brazilian talent.

The Crystal Palace boss explained the whole process, naming the person at the club who took charge of the operation, and detailing how they managed to convince França.

“The work of scouting the players, monitoring each player observed and the final decision on whether the athlete will be considered a potential signing or not, is up to the sporting director. In our case, it is Dougie Freedman. He spent a lot of time in Brazil recently and watched a good amount of Flamengo games. He also spoke a lot with the agents and with the player about the transfer.”

Speaking of what he’s seen from Matheus França, Hodgson admitted he didn’t watch a lot, but got impressed with what he saw.

“As a manager, I watched some video clips and two matches that Botafogo… I mean, Flamengo played. One of our owners also owns Botafogo, so sometimes I get confused (laughs). But I did see some Flamengo matches in which Matheus played and I liked what I saw!”

Hodgson also explained that França has a minor injury, and that’s why he couldn’t make his debut for the club so far. The coach believes that should help with his adaptation before he gets into the pitch.

“We have to remember that he’s young and is currently recovering from injury. This means that, in principle, he will not be able to train with us and be on the list right away. It is a shame, as we wanted to have him with us sooner.”

“On the other hand, this will give him the chance to better adjust to life here in England. We think he has all the qualities to be a huge success playing here in the league.”

“In addition, Matheus can look at several Brazilian players who were successful here before him and have them as an example.”

Despite being just 19, Matheus França had been getting into Flamengo’s team and made 54 appearances for the club. The club saw great potential in him, but couldn’t say no to Crystal Palace’s offer.

The youngster signed a contract with the Eagles which runs until 2028, and there’s certainly no hurry for his debut.