Criticism of Crystal Palace Amidst McNeil’s Failed Transfer

Dwight McNeil has recorded 15 goals and provided 19 assists in 120 appearances for Everton.

Following the collapse of Dwight McNeil’s transfer to Crystal Palace on the deadline day, his partner, Megan Sharpley, has openly criticized the club for negatively impacting the winger’s mental health. The two clubs had reached an agreement on a loan-to-buy deal valued at £20 million for the 26-year-old, with Palace having completed a medical examination and submitted a deal sheet prior to the 19:00 GMT deadline on Monday.

Unfortunately, the transfer did not materialize due to incomplete paperwork, leading to significant frustration for McNeil and his family. In a heartfelt social media post, Sharpley expressed that a four-and-a-half-year contract had been extended to McNeil and that they had made extensive preparations to relocate, only to have the opportunity unexpectedly withdrawn without any explanation.

She described McNeil as experiencing one of the lowest points in his career and criticized the overall lack of concern for player welfare, calling for the football industry to implement measures that would protect players from such experiences. Sharpley remarked on the ongoing mental health issues affecting many individuals and questioned why similar standards did not extend to professional athletes, despite their financial success.

“We live in a world where everyone is aware of how big a problem mental health is,” Sharpley stated on Instagram. “So, in football, why do we find it acceptable, because these young men are on a lot of money, to toy with their mental health as if it’s just part of the job? We all deserve to be treated with respect, kindness, and fairly.”

Reflecting on the emotional upheaval caused by the transfer debacle, Sharpley conveyed her heartbreak over the situation, emphasizing the distress of being led on a rollercoaster of hope and disappointment, only to face silence from the club at the critical moment.

In a separate post, McNeil echoed Sharpley’s sentiments regarding the lack of communication, while affirming his commitment to Everton. “While I am still left in the dark, I know for certain that I am an Everton player. I will use this situation as motivation,” he stated. Since joining Everton from Burnley in July 2022, McNeil has struggled for consistent playing time, starting only seven of his 14 league appearances this season under manager David Moyes.