Daichi Kamada has revealed how his parents helped to sway him from leaving Crystal Palace for Saudi Arabia.
Kamada looked set to leave Selhurst Park as a free agent this summer at the end of the two-year deal he signed in July 2024.
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However, he has committed his future to the Palace by signing a new one-year deal to keep him at the club until 2027.
The 29-year-old has been a key part of the club’s success during the past two seasons with FA Cup and Conference League triumphs.
Kamada did enough to attract interest from Saudi Arabia, where he could have been in line for a huge payday amid its lucrative finances.
But, after consultation with his parents, the midfielder opted not to move there and remain in south London.
Staying put
Speaking to TV Asahi Sports, via @Fooootest on X, he said: “Up until last winter, I had an offer from Saudi Arabia and was thinking about going there to secure my future.
“I thought my parents would be thrilled, but they told me, ‘At this timing, absolutely do not go.’
“It was an enormous amount of money, so I figured they’d be delighted, but that was not the case at all.”
Palace chairman Steve Parish was delighted to see Kamada extend his stay as he commented: “This is fantastic news for Crystal Palace. Over the last two years Daichi has made a great impact in the centre of midfield, as well as becoming a fans’ favourite on and off the pitch.
“I am delighted that he has turned down the many options he had to extend his stay in South London.
“Daichi will now have a well-earned break after his excellent World Cup and join us later in pre-season as we enter a busy Premier League and European season.”
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A new dawn at Selhurst
Palace are set to begin their first season under Pierre Sage, who has replaced Oliver Glasner as manager.
They will also make their Europa League debut, having qualified with their Conference League success in May.
Oscar Mingueza is their only summer signing so far following his free transfer from Celta Vigo.
However, they have banked £52million by selling Maxence Lacroix to Premier League rivals Chelsea.
Palace’s pre-season schedule got underway with a 5-1 victory over Swindon Town before defeats to Bromley and Lens.
A 0-0 draw with Famalicao followed, with the Eagles then beating Al Ula 3-1 on Friday night.
