Ismaila Sarr left out of Crystal Palace squad for Premier League opener with Everton

Ismaila Sarr was omitted from Crystal Palace’s squad for their Premier League 2026-27 opener against Everton, according to an article published on 2026-08-22. The report states his absence is linked to a push to leave Selhurst Park rather than any fitness issue.

David Moyes’ Everton side and Pierre Sage’s Crystal Palace were named for the season opener, with the article listing Everton’s starting personnel and bench. Everton were reported to start Jordan Pickford in goal with Vitalii Mykolenko, Jarrad Branthwaite and James Tarkowski forming the defensive core. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Thierno Barry were noted among the attacking options. Everton’s bench included Michael Keane, Tyler Dibling, Brennan Johnson and James Garner.

Sage’s selected XI for Crystal Palace, as given in the report, included Dean Henderson, Chadi Riad, Chris Richards, Adam Wharton, Daichi Kamada, Daniel Munoz, Eddie Nketiah and Jean-Philippe Mateta. The article specified Henderson would keep goal while Mateta and Nketiah were expected to trouble Everton’s defence.

The piece explains the reason for Sarr’s omission: he is reportedly pressing for a transfer away from Selhurst Park and has missed training to signal his desire to leave. Turkish Super Lig side Galatasaray was named as a prospective destination after submitting a bid of €35 million that the English club reportedly rejected.

Although Sage initially said "everything’s alright and Sarr would play," the article says the player was not included in the matchday squad and that every other senior name was available for selection. Fans in the host nation were advised they could watch the game on Sky Sports, with Jio Hotstar and Star Sports Network also listed as viewing options.

The report concludes that Sarr’s future at Crystal Palace remains unresolved following the failed €35 million approach and his absence from training. Only time will tell whether the player has a future here or not.