Wilfried Zaha reveals how conversation with Didier Drogba convinced him to join Galatasaray

After months of speculation surrounding his future, Wilfried Zaha’s move to Galatasaray was confirmed on Monday night, with the forward signing a three-year deal with the Turkish giants.

In selecting his new team, Zaha has now revealed that he sought the advice of former Eagles teammate Patrick van Aanholt as well as fellow Ivorian Didier Drogba.

‘Obviously this will be my first opportunity to be part of the Champions League, so my mindset is to come here and do my best, try and help the club win titles and get as far as possible,’ the winger told Beanyman Sports.

‘My message is when I put on the shirt I always give 100 per cent and I look forward to winning hopefully the league this season with all the fans. I’ve asked a few friends, I asked Patrick Van Aanholt who came here, I asked Drogba and he told me it was amazing. I just can’t wait to step in here and see it for myself.’

Wilfried Zaha’s Career at Crystal Palace

Zaha leaves boyhood club Palace having been their talisman for the past 13 years – bar one season at Manchester United – scoring 90 goals and making 76 assists in 458 appearances.

‘I was really sad to hear that Wilf has decided to leave and start a new chapter in his footballing life. I was always hoping that he would commit his future to the club and I would have the benefit of working with him again this season,’ Palace manager Roy Hodgson said.

‘I can only endorse all that the Chairman [Steve Parish] has said, which encapsulates everything that I and the coaching staff who have worked with Wilfried closely, feel. I would like to thank him personally for everything he did during my time as manager.

‘The club is losing an iconic figure and although we regret that it has not been possible to persuade Wilfried to stay longer, we can only wish the very best of luck to him and his family in their new venture.’

Didier Drogba’s Time at Galatasaray

Legendary striker Drogba spent a season at Rams Park during the time between his two spells at Stamford Bridge, while defender Van Aanholt, also formerly of Chelsea, is currently on loan at PSV from Galatasaray.

Crystal Palace’s New Contract Offer

Palace had also tabled a new £200,000-a-week contract, but it was Galatasaray who won his signature, with Zaha wanting to fulfill his dream of playing in the Champions League.

Conclusion

Wilfried Zaha has now left Crystal Palace after 13 years and is ready to embark on a new journey with Galatasaray. His decision was influenced by conversations with Patrick van Aanholt and Didier Drogba, both of whom had played for Galatasaray in the past. Zaha is now looking forward to playing in the Champions League and helping Galatasaray win titles this season.

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