Glasner Set to Depart Crystal Palace at Season’s End

Departure Announcement

Crystal Palace’s head coach, Oliver Glasner, has officially announced his intention to leave the club when his contract concludes at the end of the ongoing season.

Key Achievements

The 51-year-old Austrian manager will be remembered fondly by the supporters for leading the team to its first significant trophy, the FA Cup, following a remarkable victory over Manchester City last season. This achievement also saw Glasner guide Palace into this year’s Conference League, marking their debut in a major European competition. Additionally, the team triumphed over Liverpool in the Community Shield through a penalty shootout earlier in August.

New Contract Discussion

According to insiders, a new contract proposal was presented to Glasner last summer. However, he confirmed on Friday that he had communicated his decision not to extend his stay to chairman Steve Parish during a meeting in October.

“I made a decision months ago. During the international break, I sat down with Steve and had a thorough discussion. I informed him I wouldn’t commit to a new contract and we agreed it would be best to keep that information private for a while,” Glasner stated.

Transition Amidst Squad Changes

The announcement coincides with the expected departure of team captain Marc Guehi, who is reportedly nearing a transfer to Manchester City. Glasner clarified that his leave is unrelated to transfer negotiations and emphasizes his commitment to the club’s success.

“I believe it is vital to clarify my situation now that we have a busy schedule ahead, and Steve and I both want what is best for Crystal Palace,” he added.

Glasner’s Relationship with Guehi

The deal for Guehi was reportedly finalized recently, with Glasner updating himself on developments. The defender’s desire to join City was confirmed during a conversation at the team’s training center on Friday.

In a private meeting with the squad, Glasner revealed his decision to depart the club in June, expressing his frustration at being unable to retain Guehi for the remainder of the season.

Season Performance Overview

Glasner, who took over from Roy Hodgson in February 2024 with the team in a modest 15th place in the Premier League, successfully guided Palace to a 10th-place finish. However, the Eagles have struggled during this season, currently positioned 13th and enduring a nine-match winless streak, including a surprising defeat to non-league Macclesfield in the FA Cup.

With Palace finishing 10th in the Conference League group phase, they are set to confront Bosnian side Zrinjski in the playoff round to secure a place in the last 16.

Despite some disappointing results, Glasner remains a respected figure, with speculation linking him to the managerial position at Manchester United.

“I’m eager for a new challenge,” he remarked. “I have not engaged in talks with any other club. I assured my players today that I will strive to provide the best season possible for Crystal Palace, aiming for the highest point tally in our history.”

Looking Ahead

Glasner expressed confidence in the future of the club, regardless of his departure.

“I know the club is in capable hands, where everyone shares a vision for Palace’s success. Football presents its highs and lows, and it’s something we must adapt to,” he concluded, reflecting on the contrasting emotions experienced over recent months.