Óscar Mingueza
CRY
Right Back
Overlapping Full Back
May 13, 1999 (27)
Right
6'0"
165 lb
Fighting for playing time
Mingueza made his Premier League debut for Crystal Palace as a substitute in the second game of the season against Manchester City and was an unused sub in the club's most recent league outing, having a limited role with his new club after joining from Celta Vigo this summer.
Analysis: Mingueza arrived from Celta Vigo as insurance behind Daniel Munoz at right back before the latest left the club, but has managed just 16 minutes through Palace's first five Premier League matches, all coming as a late substitute in the August 28 defeat over Manchester City and the victory against Fulham in early September. He was left on the bench for the September 20 draw at Leeds United, a sign that new coach Pierre Sage currently trusts other options ahead of him. His versatility across the back line, having played right back, left back, wing back and center back for Celta Vigo, gives him multiple paths into the lineup if injuries strike. For now, Mingueza profiles as pure depth with no clear route to consistent minutes.
Starts in final friendly
Mingueza started and played 77 minutes in Saturday's 3-0 friendly loss to Freiburg.
Analysis: Mingueza finally got some time for his new club this offseason as they finished up their offseason friendlies, featuring in the starting XI and playing 77 minutes. This comes as many expect the defender to start heading into the season for Palace, taking over a role on the right flank as Daniel Munoz is surrounded by transfer rumors. Either way, his presence on the field ahead of the season is a good sign as he builds chemistry with new teammates. He produced one goal and four assists with Celta Vigo last campaign, a solid wing-back option for the Eagles.
Left out of Como Cup squad
Mingueza is not in Crystal Palace's squad for the trip to Italy for the Como Cup, with no reason disclosed for his absence at this stage, the club announced.
Analysis: Mingueza's absence comes with no reason disclosed at this stage. Palace will face RC Lens and Famalicao in a pair of 45 minute fixtures on Tuesday, with a third match later in the week to determine final standings. Further details on his situation are expected to come from the club in the coming days. Mingueza is expected to be reassessed as Palace's preseason preparations continue under new coach Pierre Sage.
Signs with Crystal Palace
Mingueza signed a four-year contract with Crystal Palace on a free transfer from Celta Vigo, the club announced.
Analysis: Mingueza becomes the first signing of the Pierre Sage era after arriving from Celta, where he established himself as one of La Liga's most reliable defenders. The versatile Spain international, capable of playing across the back line, brings valuable top-level experience after previously making 66 appearances for Barcelona and earning four senior caps for Spain. The 27-year-old is coming off an impressive 2025-26 campaign in which he helped Celta reach the Europa League quarterfinals and earned a place in the competition's Team of the Season. He is expected to provide quality and flexibility to Palace's defense heading into the new season.
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