“It’s a disgrace” – Director irritated over losing star Crystal Palace, says player didn’t rest for days’

The transfer saga surrounding Daniel Muñoz’s move from KRC Genk to Crystal Palace has left the club’s technical director, Dimitri De Condé, feeling disheartened and frustrated. Muñoz, a Colombia international, arrived in Europe when Genk signed him from Atlético Nacional in 2020. After showcasing his talents in the Jupiler Pro League, the 27-year-old secured a permanent move to Crystal Palace during the recently closed transfer window.

In an extensive interview with Belgian newspaper Het Belang van Limburg, De Condé expressed his disappointment over the timing of Muñoz’s departure, stating, “It’s a disgrace and irritating that the transfer had to happen in the winter.” However, he emphasized that he didn’t harbor any resentment towards Muñoz himself, acknowledging the player’s contributions to Genk over the past 3.5 years and his desire to fulfill his dream of playing in the Premier League.

De Condé revealed the emotional toll the transfer took on Muñoz, recounting how the player anxiously awaited confirmation of the move while sitting on a stool on the third floor of the club’s facilities for hours, having not slept for several days. The technical director empathized with Muñoz’s situation, understanding the mental and physical strain of the transfer process.

During Muñoz’s final days at Genk, he was unable to train with the team due to his state of mind and body. De Condé explained, “He didn’t train for several days because he was now not ready to do it mentally and physically.”

Muñoz’s departure marks the end of his successful spell with Genk, where he contributed seven goals and two assists in 29 appearances this season. Moving forward, he has signed a contract with Crystal Palace until 2027, with an option for an additional year. Despite experiencing a disappointing debut with Palace in their 4-1 loss to Brighton and Hove Albion, Muñoz will aim to make a positive impact and establish himself in the Premier League.

While De Condé expressed his understanding of Muñoz’s desire to move to a higher-profile league, the transfer has left a sense of loss and frustration within Genk. However, the club will now look to regroup and focus on the future, as they continue to navigate the challenges of player recruitment and development in the competitive world of football.