Anan Halaily Joins Crystal Palace After Failed Milan Medical, Following Mateta's Successful Precedent

Anan Halaily's transfer to Crystal Palace was officially announced on August 15, 2026, marking the largest deal ever for an Israeli footballer. The move comes after Halaily's planned transfer to Inter Milan collapsed due to failed medical tests. Despite the setback, Halaily has now secured a spot at another prestigious club, Crystal Palace, which has experience handling players who failed medicals at Milan.

Last summer, Jean-Philippe Mateta was set to join AC Milan but failed his medical due to a knee issue linked to a 2019 meniscus tear. Crystal Palace, anticipating his departure, signed Jürgen Strand Larsen from Wolves. Mateta returned to play in March and was instrumental in Palace's UEFA Conference League victory in May, scoring the only goal in the final against Rayo Vallecano. Mateta ended the season with 16 goals in 50 appearances, second only to Ismaïla Sarr at Palace.

Mateta expressed gratitude for the failed medical, revealing that the knee injury was more severe than initially thought. He said in an interview with Canal+ Foot that the medical exam prevented him from worsening his condition and ultimately benefited his career. Now, Halaily, a defender for the Israeli national team, will join Palace alongside Mateta, both arriving after unsuccessful medicals at Milan. The article raises the question of whether Halaily will replicate Mateta's success following this challenging start.

Halaily's transfer represents a significant milestone for Israeli football, and Crystal Palace's track record suggests a promising environment for his development despite the initial medical concerns.