Jean-Philippe Mateta Returns with Protective Helmet After Gruesome Injury

CRYSTAL PALACE, England — Jean-Philippe Mateta is set to make his return to the field on Saturday after suffering a gruesome ear injury during the FA Cup. The Crystal Palace striker, who required 25 stitches following a collision with Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts earlier this month, will wear a protective headgear during the FA Cup quarter-final against Fulham.

Mateta’s injury occurred on March 1 when Roberts made a high-footed challenge that resulted in Mateta needing emergency medical attention on the pitch before being taken to the hospital. In an interview, the 27-year-old expressed his relief that his injuries were not more severe, stating, “I was afraid I’d have broken bones or blood in my brain, but in fact, my ear was just destroyed.”

After almost three weeks of recovery, Mateta has been training with modified gear designed to protect his ear. Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner shared his confidence in Mateta’s readiness for the match, saying, “He has trained with us for two weeks with this protection. It looks a bit strange but he says he feels comfortable.”

The custom headgear resembles a water-polo helmet, meant to fit snugly while leaving one ear uncovered. Although unconventional, Glasner noted the importance of the gear for Mateta’s safety, mentioning former Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech, who similarly wore protective headgear after sustaining a head injury in 2006.

“It’s like a water polo helmet but with one ear out. I remember Petr Cech wearing this helmet,” Glasner recounted. “If I believe it’s a problem, I wouldn’t play him, but it looks like it isn’t a problem.”

Mateta’s teammate Chris Richards, who also has experience with protective gear after fracturing his nose last year, shared his thoughts on Mateta’s new appearance. “He looks like a wrestler,” Richards joked. “I think he enjoys the attention a bit more now, but he’s been the same. He’s got that bionic ear now.”

The return of Mateta is crucial for Crystal Palace; he has scored 15 goals across all competitions this season. The striker expressed his desire to be back in competitive play, stating, “I want to play again,” despite the injury’s severity.

The FA Cup quarter-final is set for Saturday at Craven Cottage, kick-off at 12:15 p.m. Mateta’s health and performance will be closely monitored as he steps back into action, though team officials are optimistic about his full recovery and ability to contribute.