A Historic Achievement for Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace’s manager, Oliver Glasner, has admitted that it is still hard to believe he will be leaving the club this summer after leading them to a historic European victory. The Eagles secured their third trophy in a year by defeating Rayo Vallecano 1-0 in the Conference League final, marking the end of Glasner’s remarkable tenure on a high note.
Glasner reflected on the moment, saying: “Right now, I can’t even believe this was the last game.” He added, “I took this decision, it’s a good chapter in the Crystal Palace book. Other gaffers will follow. It’s a one-year delay (getting into the Europa League), but the players get what they deserve. Sometimes you need to take the long round-trip, but now Crystal Palace is where they should be.”
He also expressed his gratitude to the players, stating, “It means a lot. I say thank you to the players because they always trusted in me and believed what I told them.”
Adam Wharton Looks Forward to Celebrations
Adam Wharton, who was rushed to hospital following last year’s FA Cup final triumph due to a concussion, pledged to make up for lost time in the celebrations this year.
“I missed out on the FA Cup celebrations, so I am definitely going to make up for it this year,” Wharton said. “It’s going to be big. I’ve got two celebrations to catch up on. I’ve got doping (testing), but hopefully I can get that done quickly and get on the beers and alcohol.”
Regarding Glasner, Wharton added, “First European competition (for Palace), and we won it. He’s got to be one of the best managers Palace have ever had. He has completely changed the way the club looks at competitions.”
Jean-Philippe Mateta Leads the Celebration
Goal scorer Jean-Philippe Mateta, who nearly left the club in January, was at the center of the celebrations.
He said, “I feel fantastic! I feel fantastic! We did it! First time in Europe, we did it! Now I just want to celebrate, I just want to party. It’s incredible. We did everything. I told you about the intensity we’re going to put. I’m tired right now. I gave everything.”
Mateta also highlighted the support from the fans, saying, “I’m always with them (the fans). They support me as a player a lot, and as a team. They’re always behind us and we did that for them too.”
