Full Breakdown
Crystal Palace’s Ismaila Sarr Missing from Everton Squad Amid Transfer Rumors
8/22/2026, 8:50:02 PM
Situation Overview
Ismaila Sarr was omitted from Crystal Palace’s match-day squad for the Premier League fixture against Everton. BBC Sport reports that the Senegal international has not trained for the past two days and cited a groin issue as the reason for his exclusion. The same outlet notes that Galatasaray have expressed concrete interest, but Palace “do not want to sell” the forward who tallied 21 goals in all competitions last season, helping the club win the Community Shield and the UEFA Conference League.
Background and Transfer Context
Sarr signed a three-year contract with Palace in the summer and is widely regarded as a key attacking player. An insider known as “Calcio Carl” posted on Instagram that Sarr has refused to train under manager Pierre Sage and is attempting to force a move to Galatasaray. The post referenced the Turkish transfer window closing on September 4, a week after the English deadline of September 1, suggesting the situation could be prolonged.
Official Statements & Responses
Manager Pierre Sage explained the medical decision, stating that a club doctor, the player, and he himself assessed Sarr as “not really 100 percent” and therefore unsuitable to risk playing. The club has reiterated that only a bid “well above market value” would be considered, indicating no immediate intention to sell.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Two days ago, I said he will play. And yesterday, we make a medical point with the doctor of the club, the player and me.” — Pierre Sage
Implications
If Sarr remains unavailable beyond the early-season fixtures, Palace may need to adjust their attacking lineup while negotiations with Galatasaray continue. The overlapping transfer deadlines could extend the dispute into September, potentially leaving the forward sidelined for several weeks despite his contractual status and recent performance record.
