Crystal Palace are preparing to begin the search for a new manager as Oliver Glasner edges closer to a summer departure, despite being highly admired by chairman Steve Parish.
Uncertain future at Selhurst Park
Twelve months ago, Palace were building momentum towards FA Cup success and the promise of European football. Optimism surrounded Selhurst Park and the club appeared to be on a clear upward path.
Fast forward a year and the picture looks very different. Glasner is expected to leave at the end of the season, European qualification is unlikely, and their FA Cup defence came to a stunning halt against non league side Macclesfield in the opening round. A run of disappointing results has added to the sense of frustration in South London.
A midweek defeat to Burnley, in which Palace surrendered control, only deepened the gloom. Glasner did not hide his disappointment afterwards, openly criticising his team’s performance.
With 12 Premier League fixtures remaining, the Europa Conference League now represents the only realistic chance for Glasner to bow out on a high note. Regardless of how that campaign unfolds, Palace will soon begin work on appointing his successor, ushering in a fresh chapter at the club.
Thomas Frank emerges as contender
Attention is already turning to potential replacements. While high profile names such as Gareth Southgate have been mentioned, another candidate has reportedly moved into focus.
According to Sports Boom, Palace are ready to open discussions with Thomas Frank following his recent dismissal by Tottenham Hotspur.
Frank’s stock was significantly higher a year ago. His impressive work at Brentford earned widespread praise and eventually led to his appointment at Spurs, where he was tasked with revitalising the North London side. The move did not produce the desired results, and he was relieved of his duties after a disappointing spell that ended with defeat to Newcastle United.
Why Palace could suit Frank
Despite his struggles at Tottenham, Frank’s overall track record remains strong. Palace may see Selhurst Park as an ideal setting for him to rebuild his reputation. The expectations differ from those at Spurs, and the underdog spirit that has defined Palace in recent years aligns well with Frank’s strengths.
Former Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves once described the work Frank did at Brentford as brilliant, highlighting his ability to maximise resources and foster team unity. Parish is said to admire those qualities, and the Dane could now have the opportunity to rediscover that formula in South London.
Thoroughly agree, get Frank in, he worked wonders at Brenford, could do the same for Palace.