Patrick van Aanholt has shared his love for Crystal Palace, admitting everything was perfect for him at the club.
ESPN have an interview with the defender today. They’ve spoken to him ahead of AZ Alkmaar’s trip to take on Crystal Palace in Europe this week.
Van Aanholt knows all about the Eagles after playing for them from 2017 to 2021. He joined them from Sunderland and went on to make 134 appearances in all competitions.
He initially arrived under Sam Allardyce, his former manager, to help Crystal Palace avoid relegation. There were plenty of big moments after that, including a memorable late winner in a 2-1 win over Manchester United in 2019/20 season.
The Dutchman eventually departed on a free transfer in 2021, with the emergence of Tyrick Mitchell pushing him down the pecking order.
It means he’s been watching from afar as his old club have gone from strength to strength, particularly under Oliver Glasner.
The Eagles are now one of the most entertaining teams in the Premier League. They’ve also won their first major trophy with the FA Cp success last season.
Crystal Palace represents career highlight
Patrick van Aanholt
ROTTERDAM, NETHERLANDS – MAY 6 2023: Patrick van Aanholt of PSV celebrating the win of the match during the match between Sparta Rotterdam and PSV at Sparta Stadion
And Van Aanholt is delighted with that, insisting he has nothing but fond memories of his time at the club.
“At Crystal Palace I had my best times. I played my best football there,” he said.
“In the Premier League, in a city like London… Everything was just perfect. Everything is well organised; it is a very warm club.
“It’s great club, with the stadium in the middle of a residential area, just like so many stadiums in London. The fans are fantastic. All they want is for the team to work hard. You may lose once, but they will continue to support you.
“I’m so proud that they won those trophies. They are now also doing really fantastic; it is a pleasure to watch. They have things on track.”