Zavier Gozo Embraces 'Worst Player' Role for Development at Crystal Palace and USMNT

Nineteen-year-old midfielder Zavier Gozo, a recent transfer to Premier League club Crystal Palace, is intentionally embracing a role as the 'worst player on the team' to foster his development.

Gozo, who is living outside of Utah for the first time, finds comfort in London through his new teammates, including Chris Richards, who lives across the street with his family. This sense of familiarity has aided Gozo's adjustment to a new country and a higher level of competition.

His move to Crystal Palace came after a stint with Real Salt Lake that brought him into consideration for the U.S. World Cup roster. Gozo has yet to start for Palace's senior team, making only a few appearances off the bench. He stated that this situation was expected when making the transition to the Premier League.

"Even if I’m not starting immediately, you don’t expect to go from MLS to the Premier League and start, win the Golden Boot or be the best player in the league," Gozo said. "It was just about development for me and being in a high-level environment every day. Coming in and going from being one of the best players on my team in the MLS and going back to being the worst player on the team again."

This self-assessment, while harsh, highlights his perspective on the importance of immersing himself in a top-tier environment. Gozo believes this strategic step back in playing time is a worthwhile trade-off for his overall growth, and his current inclusion in the U.S. national team camp indicates the move is benefiting his standing.

"It’s been amazing, from knowing that I’m getting called up to being here and being with everyone. Obviously players I’ve looked up to for a while," he said. "I feel like it’s been kind of surreal, but also, I want to play with the national team and compete for a spot here too."

Gozo is currently with the national team as it prepares to face Peru in Orlando. The camp provides an opportunity for young players like Gozo to prove their readiness for international competition.