©Picture Alliance / Action Plus | Katie Chan
According to the BBC, Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner confirmed at a press conference on Friday January 16 that he would be leaving the club at the end of the current season.
Having arrived at Selhurst Park in 2023, the Austrian coach has indicated that he will not be extending his contract, which expires this summer. "I want to take on a new challenge," Glasner explained, making it clear that his decision was not linked to recent transfer business. But although he denies it, some believe that Glasner's decision was catalyzed by the announced departures within his team. He has repeatedly claimed that the team is not strong enough to perform well on many fronts.
This statement comes at a time when Eagles captain Marc Guehi is close to a move to Manchester City. According to the BBC, the two clubs have reached an agreement, in principle, on a transfer estimated at 23 million euros. Discussions have intensified over the last 24 hours against a backdrop of injuries to City's Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Dias. Guehi, whose contract expires in the summer of 2026 (and has not been extended), will not be included in Saturday's team. Glasner confirmed that the operation was "in its final phase", but "not yet officially closed".
At a meeting with the players on Friday morning, the news of Glasner's departure took the team by surprise, but the coach insisted on the club's ability to rebuild. "Crystal Palace have sold in the past and have always been able to progress," he recalled.
The coach also hinted that Jean-Philippe Mateta could be transferred in January should a good offer arrive in the hands of Steve arish, the boss of the south London club. Before concluding on a positive note: "Whatever happens, the club is in very good hands."
(SK/ ©Redaction@The Press Junction/Pic: picture alliance / Action Plus | Katie Chan)