Oliver Glasner’s Legacy and the Path Forward for Crystal Palace
Oliver Glasner has concluded his transformative tenure as manager of Crystal Palace with a third trophy in a year, securing the Conference League title by defeating Rayo Vallecano. His time at Selhurst Park has been nothing short of remarkable, transforming the Eagles from underdogs into a team capable of competing on the European stage. Under his guidance, Palace secured Europa League football for next season, which is a major draw for potential signings and the club’s next manager.
With Glasner’s incredible contributions behind them, there are three key areas that Crystal Palace must focus on to build on this success ahead of a busy summer transfer window.
Be Bold and Decisive in the Market
The recent triumph has provided Palace with a solid platform, but they cannot afford to repeat the mistakes of previous summers. Reinforcements have often arrived too late in the transfer window, a recurring issue during Glasner’s time. Before this season, only back-up left-wing-back Borna Sosa and reserve keeper Walter Benitez joined the squad, leading to a frantic rush towards deadline day when Yeremy Pino, Christantus Uche, and Jaydee Canvot were signed. Evann Guessand and Jorgen Strand Larsen also arrived late in the winter window.
Uncertainty over the futures of players like Eberechi Eze and Marc Guehi proved distracting, with news of Eze’s departure breaking on the eve of Palace’s Conference League debut and Guehi’s move to Liverpool collapsing in the final hours of the summer.
Glasner frequently voiced concerns about the lack of support after winning the FA Cup, and the squad’s depth was exposed during the winter months when the season nearly fell apart. Owner Steve Parish acknowledged the need to stay at the higher level, stating, “We have got a taste for it now, we want to keep it going.”
Parish must ensure that lessons have been learned and act decisively on players who are likely to attract interest, including Adam Wharton, Maxence Lacroix, Jean-Philippe Mateta, Ismaila Sarr, and Daniel Munoz. Potential early targets include Hayden Hackney from Middlesbrough and Oscar Mingueza from Celta Vigo, although the latter’s high price tag may be prohibitive. Returning loanees like Danny Imray will also have a chance to impress in pre-season.
Get the Managerial Situation Sorted ASAP
It is understandable that Palace has not yet named Glasner’s replacement, given the recent victory and the significant changes it brings. Without it, there would be no European football at Selhurst Park, but now the club can aim for a higher calibre of players and manager.
However, with many players set to participate in the World Cup this summer, it is crucial for Palace to expedite the managerial search. The club is planning to postpone their Conference League title celebrations until later in the summer, but they should not delay activity in the managerial transfer market.
Andoni Iraola is the top target, but if he declines, the club must pivot quickly to ensure the new manager has the best possible chance of success. Whoever takes the role should aim to build on the unity, high standards, and winning mentality that Glasner cultivated.
Stay Patient
Glasner leaves behind an impressive foundation, and Crystal Palace has never enjoyed more prosperous times. However, this success comes with increased expectations for the next manager. There will inevitably be dips, especially with the step up to the Europa League and the early struggles in the Conference League.
There will also be a period of adaptation for the new manager. Glasner’s three-at-the-back system was perfected by his players, but a different tactical approach, such as that of Iraola, may take time for the squad to adjust to. The psychological impact of Glasner’s exit could also affect the team.
Patience will be essential, as seen in Iraola’s slow start at Bournemouth, where he earned just three points from his first nine games. Palace must support the transition to ensure the club can sustain this remarkable era.
