Crystal Palace head coach Oliver Glasner has insisted he remains fully focused on the job until the end of the season, despite his recent public criticism of the club’s leadership.
The Austrian confirmed earlier this month that he will step away from Selhurst Park when his contract expires in the summer, a decision that came less than a year after guiding Palace to a historic FA Cup triumph. While his announcement raised eyebrows, Glasner stressed that the call was made long before the current transfer window and had nothing to do with recent events.
Glasner explained that he informed chairman Steve Parish of his intentions during a meeting in October, making clear he was ready for a new challenge. He also dismissed suggestions of any breakdown in their relationship, insisting communication between them has remained open and honest.
Tensions, however, boiled over following last weekend’s 2-1 Premier League defeat to Sunderland. In the aftermath, Glasner claimed he felt let down by the board, particularly after captain Marc Guehi was sold to Manchester City on the eve of a league fixture. The timing of the deal angered the Palace boss, who felt it left an already stretched squad short of support during a difficult period.
Palace’s struggles have only deepened in recent weeks. The club sit 15th in the table, have taken just two points from their last five outings, and are hovering uncomfortably close to the relegation battle. Matters have been further complicated by reports that top scorer Jean-Philippe Mateta is keen on a move away, with interest from Juventus, although Palace remain reluctant to part with a player tied down until 2027.
Despite the turmoil, Glasner now strikes a more optimistic tone. He revealed he recently held lengthy and constructive talks with Parish, describing the atmosphere at the club as far calmer after what he likened to a passing storm. The discussions focused on the circumstances surrounding Guehi’s sale, including its timing and the lack of an immediate replacement.
Glasner said both he and the chairman are fully committed to finishing the campaign as strongly as possible, with the aim of steadying the ship over the final months. He added that the mood around the training ground has lifted, praising the attitude and spirit shown by his players during a positive week on the pitch.
For now, Glasner insists his focus is firmly on helping Palace push through a testing spell and restore some optimism at Selhurst Park before his departure in the summer.