Marc Guehi's Heartfelt Nod to Chelsea Loanee After Palace's Historic Cup Glory

By Lewis Barnett 22 May, 2025 5 mins read 92 Views

I've seen plenty of footballers come and go over the years, but there's something genuinely refreshing about Marc Guehi. In a world where players barely acknowledge waterboys, let alone former teammates, the Palace captain just showed us what true class looks like.

God. The FA Cup final still feels like a dream. Crystal Palace—CRYSTAL PALACE—beating Manchester City 1-0 to win their first major trophy EVER. I was in the pub with my brother-in-law (lifelong Palace fan) who literally cried when Eze scored that goal. Poor bloke hadn't seen his club lift anything significant in his entire 43 years on this planet.

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When Loyalty Trumps Rivalry

So here's teh thing that caught my eye yesterday. Guehi, fresh off captaining Palace to glory and probably still nursing that hospital visit after the match, took time to publicly acknowledge Trevoh Chalobah on Instagram.

For those who don't know the backstory—Chalobah spent the first half of the season on loan at Palace from Chelsea before being recalled in January. He played 14 times alongside Guehi but never featured in Palace's FA Cup run.

Guehi posted a photo of them together with the caption: "I know he's a Chelsea player right now, but let's show some love to Trevoh Chalobah for also playing a big part in our success this year, thank you brother."

That hit me right in the feels.

The Chalobah Situation (It's Complicated)

Back in September, Chalobah arrived at Selhurst Park looking like a player with no future at Chelsea. Maresca clearly didn't fancy him, and Palace offered him regular football. He formed a solid partnership with Guehi before Chelsea's defensive crisis forced them to recall him in January.

The timing was brutal. He left just as Palace were finding their groove under Glasner.

And here's the kicker—Chalobah won't even get an FA Cup winner's medal because he didn't play in the competition for Palace. Meanwhile, Ben Chilwell (another Chelsea loanee) WILL get one after appearing three times in the Cup. Football can be cruel sometimes...

What's Next for These Two?

I spoke with someone close to Palace last week (can't name names, sorry) who suggested the club are seriously considering making Chalobah's move permanent now they've secured Europa League football. The 25-year-old is contracted to Chelsea until 2028, but with their revolving door of defenders, he might fancy stability at Palace.

As for Guehi? His stock couldn't be higher. One year left on his contract and everyone from Newcastle to Liverpool are circling. Even Real Madrid and Barca have shown interest according to exclusive Sun reporting last week.

Listen. If I was Palace's sporting director, I'd be doing everything humanly possible to keep him. The man just captained them to their first major trophy! But football economics being what they are in 2025... I'd be shocked if he's still at Selhurst come September.

Brotherhood Beyond Badges

Chalobah responded to Guehi's post with: "My brother what a season and glad to have played alongside you."

Eddie Nketiah chimed in with "My captain" while Palace legend Clinton Morrison added: "This is why you're my favourite footballer, always keeping it 100."

In an era where loyalty in football seems as rare as a decent VAR decision, this exchange between two young defenders who only played together for a few months feels refreshingly genuine.

The Aftermath of Glory

Palace can finish no lower than 12th this season when the final games play out on Sunday. Not bad for a club that many (including yours truly... I feel stupid now) predicted might struggle this year.

That FA Cup final wasn't without drama though—Guehi and Wharton both ended up in hospital after the match, and there was that Henderson VAR moment that had City fans fuming.

But history only remembers the winners. And Marc Guehi just wrote himself into Crystal Palace folklore forever.

And showed us all what real leadership looks like in the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

How has the Premier League changed since its inception?

Since its founding in 1992, there have been many changes in the Premier League. The Premier League was formed in 1992 as a breakaway group from the Football League, to capitalize on lucrative television deals. Since then, this league has grown to be a global sports phenomenon. It attracted top talent around the world. The league has also experienced advancements in sport science, training facilities and stadium technologies. This has contributed to an overall improvement of the football spectacle.

Can you describe the concept of a 'Big Six in the Premier League'?

The Big Six refers collectively to the Premier League’s most successful clubs and influential teams in recent history. Manchester United, Manchester City and Liverpool are usually on the list. Also included is Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur. These teams have a reputation for a consistently high performance, a huge fan base and financial strength, as well as qualifying frequently for European competitions.

What community initiatives does Premier League support and promote?

The Premier League sponsors a range of initiatives in the community aimed at improving people's lives. These initiatives include education and sport development programs for children, promoting inclusivity for underrepresented football groups, and assisting projects that use the power of football to create positive social change. Premier League's international reach allows it make a significant contribution both in the UK and abroad, highlighting football's ability to contribute to social well-being.

What happens to the teams that finish at the bottom of the Premier League?

At the end of each Premier League season, the teams that finish in the bottom three positions of the league table are relegated to the Championship, which is the second tier of English football. The Championship's top two teams, plus the winner from the Championship playoffs get promoted in their place.

What role does the Video Assistant Referee play in the Premier League?

In the Premier League, the Video Assistant Referee system (VAR), which is used to assist on-field officials in making correct decisions about goals, penalties, red card incidents and cases of misidentification, is employed. The VAR reviews footage of the incident in question and advises the referee, who then has the option to view a replay on the pitchside monitor before making the final decision. The system aims to minimize human errors that could influence the outcome of a match.

Statistics

The 2018–19 season saw Manchester City accumulate a staggering 100 points, setting the record for the highest total in Premier League history.
Alan Shearer is the all-time top scorer in the Premier League with 260 goals across his stellar career.
Durability is exemplified by Gareth Barry who made an impressive 653 Premier League appearances, the highest number to date.
In the 1995–96 season, Manchester United achieved the largest title-winning margin, finishing 18 points clear of the second-placed team.
Manchester United holds the record for the most Premier League titles, having been crowned champions 20 times.

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How To

How to Collect Premier League Memorabilia

Collecting Premier League souvenirs is a great hobby to connect you with your favorite team's culture and history. Decide which type of collectibles you're interested in: matchday programs, autographs, rare collectibles, etc. Visit official clubs stores, shops that specialize in sports memorabilia, and online bidding sites. When purchasing signed merchandise or other special items, be sure to check the authenticity by using accredited dealers. Consider investing in long-term storage or preservation framing for special items.

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https://sportingexcitement.com/premier-league/uncle-drops-gyokeres-transfer-bombshell-after-familys-dinner-decision