In the 2025 FA Cup final, Crystal Palace overcame all odds to upset Manchester City, led by Pep Guardiola. Following Eberechi Eze’s game-winning goal at Wembley Stadium, the Eagles eventually raised their first major trophy, but one important player did not join in the post-game festivities.
Adam Wharton, a midfielder, was absent when his teammates lifted England’s oldest cup and collected their medals. The former Blackburn Rovers player, who was instrumental in Palace’s 3-0 victory over Aston Villa last month, began the game in the centre of the midfield with Daichi Kamada.
The England international is reportedly being courted by numerous clubs following his stellar 18-month tenure at Selhurst Park. Nevertheless, Wharton was the most conspicuous person who was not there at the Crystal Palace festivities.
Adam Wharton Misses Crystal Palace Celebrations
An injury ruled him out of the proceedings
As the south London team attempted to hang onto the greatest triumph in their history, Wharton was unfortunately pulled out with an injury in the 87th minute, disappointing Oliver Glasner and every Eagles fan inside the national stadium.
‘Concussion checks from KDB shot’ was the reason for the absence of the calm midfield general, according to Fabrizio Romano. Wharton missed the remainder of the action before and after the final whistle because he had to be withdrawn after stopping Kevin De Bruyne’s attempt on goal.
In the contemporary game, player safety always comes first, thus there is no room for risk of a brain injury. As a result, it was crucial that the required inspections be conducted, and Wharton was excluded from the festivities and prevented from even receiving his medal.
Wharton was outstanding for Palace in the middle of the park, and veteran midfielder Roy Keane even praised him, despite the Citizens having the majority of the possession during the ninety minutes. When ITV covered the event, the Man United legend said:
He’s a sophisticated little player who always seems to know what he’s doing.
“Very classy, played well in the semi-final, I know he’s been linked with bigger clubs, I like everything about him.”
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