Crystal Palace owned Matheus França is having a miserable loan at Vasco da Gama. The 21-year-old was booed by Vasco fans during the 3-1 defeat to Juventude.
A local insider outlet reported that the Crystal Palace loanee continues to struggle for rhythm and consistency.
No goals, no assists and growing frustration
Since his arrival from Crystal Palace in late August, França has featured in eleven games without scoring or assisting. His performances have been quiet, and his confidence appears low.
Journalist Venê Casagrande reported him as “unrecognisable” compared to his Flamengo days. “It’s hard to say if it’s due to the injuries suffered abroad, but he’s far from being the player he showed himself to be”, he said.
The criticism has spread beyond Vasco’s fanbase. Many Flamengo supporters, rivals to Vasco, who once celebrated his rise through their academy, have voiced frustration at his current struggles. Some regret that he left Brazil too early, while others question his decision to join a rival club.
Palace face questions
França remains under contract with Crystal Palace until August 2026. His stagnation, though, raises doubts about whether this loan is serving its intended purpose.
He even was tested in a deeper, defensive midfield role by Fernando Diniz. The tactical switch, which aimed to unlock different qualities in the player, has not worked so far.
Palace’s plan was to help him refine attacking skills and regain confidence near goal. Yet, under Diniz, he is being pushed into unfamiliar positions instead.
For now, the midfielder faces a critical stage. Rebuilding form and belief will define whether this Brazilian spell can still reignite the potential that once made him one of the country’s most promising talents.