Eagles' New Signing Ivan Gescheand Aims to Replicate Dual Trophy Success

The Eagles have bolstered their attacking options by bringing Ivory Coast international Ivan Gescheand to Selhurst Park on a season‑long loan from Aston Villa. The agreement, disclosed on 12 August, also grants Palace the right to make the move permanent.

Gescheand's resume includes two World Cup appearances for Ivory Coast in 2026 and a productive second half of last season with Palace, where he played 14 matches and scored two crucial goals. One strike contributed to the club’s historic UEFA Conference League triumph, while he later featured in the UEFA Europa League final victory over Rayo Vallecano in Leipzig.

After honing his skills at Marseille’s academy, Gescheand flourished at Nice, delivering 12 goals and collecting the Player of the Season accolade in 2024/25. He then joined Aston Villa, but limited opportunities led to the loan move that now makes him the first player to win two separate European trophies in a single campaign.

In an official quote, the forward said, "I’m delighted to return. My previous experiences here have been wonderful, and I feel this is just the beginning. I hope to add more proud moments for the club and the supporters."

Crystal Palace concluded the 2025/26 Premier League campaign in 15th place, registering 11 wins, 12 draws and 15 losses, yet they secured a UEFA Conference League title that earned them a berth in the UEFA Europa League. Their next European test comes on 22 August at Anfield as they face Everton.