Crystal Palace Struggle in Post-Eze Era as Justin Devenny Fails to Impress in Key Role

Crystal Palace are quickly discovering just how difficult life can be without their talisman, Eberechi Eze. Since the playmaker’s high-profile move to Arsenal earlier this summer, the Eagles have been searching desperately for a new creative spark. So far, the responsibility has been handed to 21-year-old Justin Devenny – but his early performances have done little to convince supporters that he is ready to fill such enormous boots.

Devenny, who had been making steady progress as a central midfielder, has now been thrust into an attacking role that does not quite suit his natural instincts. His first two Premier League starts since Eze’s departure were marked by energy and hard running, but the quality in the final third has been lacking. Against Nottingham Forest, the Northern Irishman worked tirelessly, pressing high and making intelligent movements, yet the lack of end product was painfully clear.

Palace fans were patient at first, but murmurs of frustration grew louder after another subdued display at the City Ground. Whenever the ball reached Devenny, the tempo seemed to drop. His decision-making was often rushed, and too many passes went astray. In moments where Eze once thrived—taking on defenders, threading decisive passes, or delivering moments of individual brilliance—Devenny appeared hesitant, struggling to impose himself on the game.

The tactical mismatch has not helped his cause. Traditionally operating deeper in midfield as a number six or number eight, Devenny is most effective when dictating tempo from behind the attack, breaking up play, and transitioning the ball forward. But Oliver Glasner has deployed him in a more advanced role, asking him to carry the creative responsibility from the left-hand side. It is a role that demands flair, speed, and improvisation—qualities that Devenny is still developing.

The imbalance was evident against Nottingham Forest, where Ismaila Sarr was once again forced to shoulder most of the attacking load. Sarr’s directness and pace offered Palace a threat, but without a partner capable of matching his creativity, much of the Eagles’ attacking play felt one-dimensional. Romain Esse, coming off the bench, brought more dynamism in a brief cameo than Devenny had managed in over an hour, completing dribbles, winning duels, and injecting urgency into Palace’s play.

This situation has sparked renewed debate about Palace’s summer recruitment. Glasner has made no secret of his frustration at the club’s failure to bring in a proper replacement for Eze, despite the significant funds generated from his sale. Supporters feel the same way, with many questioning chairman Steve Parish’s reluctance to sanction a marquee signing. Instead of investing in proven quality, Palace have leaned on youth and versatility, but the experiment is yet to pay dividends.

Glasner’s decision to persist with Devenny in this unfamiliar role may also be a subtle message to the board. By exposing the team’s shortcomings in such a glaring way, he may be trying to underline the urgent need for reinforcements. Palace are not short of effort, but without a player capable of unlocking defenses, they risk becoming predictable. In the unforgiving Premier League, predictability often leads to stagnation—or worse.

For Devenny himself, the situation is a double-edged sword. On one hand, he is gaining valuable first-team experience at a young age and being trusted to step up in a crisis. On the other hand, being forced into a role that highlights his weaknesses rather than his strengths could damage his confidence in the long run. A player who thrives on discipline and control is now being judged on flair and creativity, and so far, the gulf has been stark.

The departure of Eberechi Eze has therefore left a void that stretches beyond individual brilliance. Eze was not only Palace’s creative hub but also the heartbeat of their attack, someone who lifted teammates with his ability to turn a game in an instant. Without him, Palace are relying on improvisation, hoping that someone will rise to the challenge. But hope alone is not enough in a league where margins are razor-thin.

Supporters know that Devenny should not bear the brunt of the blame. At just 21, he is still learning and has shown glimpses of potential. The real issue lies with the club’s hierarchy and their inability to adequately prepare for life after Eze. Unless Glasner is backed with the right additions, Palace could find themselves slipping further down the table, unable to build on the progress of previous seasons.

For now, the young midfielder must continue to carry the weight of expectation, but the reality is clear: Justin Devenny cannot replace Eberechi Eze on his own. If Palace want to avoid drifting into mediocrity, reinforcements are not optional—they are essential. The transfer window remains open, but time is running out for the Eagles to find a solution before their season unravels.