Ian Wright is often supportive of Crystal Palace.
The man who made 94 appearances for the Eagles could be seen passionately celebrating when Crystal Palace beat Manchester City to win the FA Cup last season, and – despite being more vocal about Arsenal – clearly has a soft spot for his old side in SE25.
However, Ian Wright was unusually critical of Daniel Munoz and Tyrick Mitchell back in October 2024 – questioning how Oliver Glasner was using the duo – but they have since responded emphatically.
What Ian Wright said about Daniel Munoz and Tyrick Mitchell
After a 1-0 defeat at Nottingham Forest, which made it eight Premier League games without a win to begin last season, the man born in Woolwich had several complaints.
Appearing to accuse Mitchell and Munoz of not actually being able to cross, Wright told the Stick to Football podcast: “I can’t understand why he’s playing with wing-backs. Munoz and Mitchell are both full-backs, play them there.
“Looking at what he’s asking them to do, they’ve had a couple of opportunities where they can put one (a cross) in and you’re thinking, Jesus, he can’t put that ball in.”
Since then, the pair are now vital as Crystal Palace become one of the most praised teams across Europe, even embarking on a historic 19-game unbeaten run.
How Tyrick Mitchell and Daniel Munoz have fared since Ian Wright criticism
Munoz – who received a rest for Colombia against Canada – in particular has blossomed since these comments were made.
The Colombia international had zero goals and five assists in 25 appearances for Crystal Palace before Wright – who only cost a set of gym equipment – criticised him.
Munoz has since scored eight goals and provided eight assists – including the cross which won Crystal Palace the FA Cup – in 49 appearances, an exceptional return for a defender.
With regard to Mitchell, the England international finished last season with five assists in 37 Premier League appearances, the same amount as Milos Kerkez – who earned himself a £40m move to Liverpool in June.
The Crystal Palace No.3 has continued to make progress as a wing-back this term as well, even winning the Goal of the Month award for September with a stunning volley against West Ham.
Wright arguably made a fair assessment at the time as Glasner embarked on an eight-game winless streak, but the Austrian and his wing-back duo have responded on the pitch admirably ever since.
