Chadi Riad was Crystal Palace’s first signing of the summer, now he’s revealed why he didn’t even hesitate to make the move.
This summer has seen Crystal Palace make just two signings so far, albeit a third is expected imminently. The first was Chadi Riad from Real Betis, with the Moroccan youngster being a very exciting prospect.
He was soon followed by Daichi Kamada who arrived after his contract at Lazio expired, linking up with his former manager, Oliver Glasner.
Now, Ismaila Sarr looks set to be the third arrival with his medical already penned in.
However, it’s Riad who has been talking about his move to the media, here’s what he says as he explains why the move to Selhurst Park made sense.
Chadi Riad shared why Crystal Palace move was so tempting
The arrival of Riad was a surprise, coming completely out of left field, but thus far it seems another piece of shrewd business from Dougie Freedman.
The 21-year-old was very impressive for Betis last season and this has earned him a move to the world’s best league.
Now, he’s explained that when the chance to move came, he simply couldn’t turn it down.
Riad explained in an interview with TampaHoy: “I am very delighted to be here.
“My dream as a child has always been to play in the Premier League, which I think is currently one of the best leagues in the world, and when the offer came to me I didn’t think twice and said yes.”
This wasn’t all he had to say, as he then began to discuss some of the opponents he’ll be facing in the Premier League, such as Erling Haaland.
“All these types of forwards that you see so much on TV and the truth is I really want to play against them and give them a good game,” added the defender.
To see Haaland as a challenge rather than something to fear speaks volumes about Riad’s mindset and why Palace have brought him into the club.
- READ MORE: Crystal Palace confirmed signings, transfer ins and outs, loans and releases for 2024 summer window
Riad could be about to find his place in Glasner’s team
For Riad, pre-season thus far has come alongside Rob Holding and Nathaniel Clyne in central defence. This obviously is far from the strongest options the Eagles have.
But this is all about to change, and Riad could get the chance to feature alongside Joachim Andersen and Chris Richards on Saturday and onwards as they return from their holidays.
Andersen likely takes the central of the three, here he can mentor and help Riad to grow further as a player.
Hopefully, we get to see this on Saturday, with Andersen having had a few days of training already he should be right to feature.
