Anan Halili Joins Crystal Palace After Failed Medical at AC Milan, Following Mateta's Successful Precedent

Anan Halili, the Israeli defender, has officially signed with Crystal Palace in what is considered the biggest transfer deal for an Israeli footballer to date. Earlier this summer, Halili's move to AC Milan fell through due to failed medical tests. However, he has now secured a transfer to another prestigious club in the English Premier League.

Crystal Palace has experience handling players whose medicals failed at Milan. Last summer, French striker Jean-Philippe Mateta was set to join AC Milan but was rejected after a knee issue was detected during his medical exam. Despite initial disappointment, Mateta later credited the failed medical for revealing a more serious knee injury than previously known, allowing him to address it properly. He went on to have a successful season with Crystal Palace, scoring 16 goals in 50 appearances and helping the team win the UEFA Conference League in May 2026.

Mateta expressed gratitude for the failed medical, saying it prevented him from worsening his injury. Now, Halili will join Palace alongside Mateta, both arriving after unsuccessful medicals at Milan. The article raises the question of whether Halili will replicate Mateta's success at Crystal Palace following his own medical setback.

Halili's move marks a significant milestone for Israeli football, and fans hope his career will flourish similarly to Mateta's after overcoming medical challenges at Milan.