Pierre Sage's frustration threatens Evann Guessand's January exit

At Selhurst Park, Pierre Sage watches his training session with a furrowed brow, aware that 25‑year‑old Evann Guessand has yet to earn a regular place. The forward’s future looks precarious, with a possible January departure looming if he cannot convince the manager.

Mick Brown outlines the manager’s frustration

Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Pierre Sage is increasingly fed up with Guessand. Brown said, “I’ve had my doubts about Guessand from his time at Aston Villa where he really struggled.” He added that the forward’s form and application have pushed him out of the first‑team picture.

Brown explained that Guessand is not even making the squad at Crystal Palace because his performances are not good enough and Sage has other options. He suggested the disagreement after being dropped could lead to two outcomes: either the player works hard to earn his place, or he sulks on the sidelines.

He warned, “Either he gets his head down and works hard to improve and show the manager that he deserves to be there, like his teammates have, or he sulks and stays on the sidelines.” Brown added that roughly four players are currently ahead of Guessand, and the return of Sarr and Mateta pushes him even further out.

Guessand’s loan background and current plight

The Ivory Coast international rejoined Crystal Palace on loan from Aston Villa over the summer after an earlier spell that featured a goal against Wolves. The 25‑year‑old had initially impressed, but since returning to South London he has struggled to replicate that impact under Sage’s stewardship.

Having been omitted from key matchday squads, Guessand now faces a stark choice: raise his level dramatically or head back to Villa Park in January. The looming deadline adds pressure, as the forward must prove his worth before the transfer window closes.

Guessand’s situation underscores the fierce competition for places at Crystal Palace and the high standards demanded by Pierre Sage. It also highlights how quickly a loan spell can turn precarious, with the January window offering both a lifeline and a final exit point.