Crystal Palace have taken a bold step towards the future, appointing highly-regarded Austrian manager Oliver Glasner as their new boss on a deal running until the end of the 2025/26 season. The 49-year-old arrives at Selhurst Park with a reputation as a tactical innovator and a winner, having recently led Eintracht Frankfurt to Europa League glory in 2022.
Glasner’s arrival marks a new chapter for the Eagles following the departure of club legend Roy Hodgson, who stepped down earlier this week. The Austrian manager brings a wealth of experience, having honed his skills across various clubs in his native Austria and Germany. He began his managerial career at SV Ried in 2014 before achieving success with LASK Linz, guiding them to their first Austrian Bundesliga title in 2019.
His move to Wolfsburg in the Bundesliga further cemented his reputation. Glasner instilled a brand of attacking, possession-based football that saw the Wolves challenge for European qualification. However, it was at Eintracht Frankfurt where Glasner truly made his mark. In his first season at the helm, he orchestrated a remarkable Europa League triumph, defeating Barcelona along the way, and etching his name in the club’s history.
The following season, Glasner continued his impressive trajectory, leading Frankfurt to the German Cup final, narrowly losing to RB Leipzig. His achievements attracted widespread attention, with Crystal Palace recognizing him as the ideal candidate to lead them into a new era.
In an interview with the club’s official website, Glasner declared his elation at the prospect of the new challenge: “Becoming the manager of Crystal Palace F.C. is an absolute pleasure. “I am eager to put into practice the skills I have acquired, mingle with the club’s devoted supporters, and immerse myself in the renowned Selhurst Park ambiance that I have been warned about.”
Palace chairman Steve Parish echoed the sentiment, highlighting Glasner’s impressive track record. He mentioned that they are delighted to welcome Oliver to Crystal Palace. He has an outstanding managerial record and they believe he is the right person to take the club forward.
Glasner’s arrival is expected to bring a significant shift in playing style at Selhurst Park. Known for his emphasis on tactical flexibility, pressing, and attacking flair, he is likely to implement a more progressive approach compared to Hodgson’s pragmatic methods.
This philosophy aligns with the club’s desire to attract and develop young, exciting talent, while also entertaining the passionate Palace faithful. However, Glasner faces several challenges. He inherits a squad currently hovering just above the relegation zone, requiring immediate stability and tactical adjustments.
Despite the challenges, Glasner’s appointment signifies Crystal Palace’s ambition to move beyond survival mode and establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the Premier League. His proven track record of success, coupled with his tactical acumen and leadership qualities, suggests that the Eagles may have found the right man to lead them into a brighter future.
With the season still in its infancy, all eyes will be on Glasner as he attempts to implement his vision and steer Crystal Palace away from relegation worries and towards a more progressive and successful future. The Selhurst Park faithful will be eager to see if the “European Conqueror” can replicate his success on English soil.