Glasner’s Rising Star: A Manager in Demand

Before the international break, manager Ruben Amorim found himself in precarious circumstances following a disappointing defeat to Brentford, which left his position uncertain. However, an impressive performance in October has restored some stability and confidence among fans and the club’s administration.

In contrast, Enzo Maresca’s tenure at Chelsea has shown marginal improvement, yet lacks any remarkable achievements. Chelsea’s inconsistent form continues to perplex supporters, highlighted by their recent 2-2 draw against Qarabag in the Champions League.

In the midst of this uncertainty, Oliver Glasner’s name has surfaced as a potential candidate for managerial vacancies at either Manchester United or Chelsea. Glasner led Crystal Palace to FA Cup victory, and had it not been for a UEFA ruling, the team would have participated in this season’s Europa League. His achievements earned him recognition as Austria’s Coach of the Year at the Sporthilfe Gala.

Despite the increasing speculation surrounding his future, Glasner remains composed. When asked about the rumors linking him to United, he responded with a grounded approach. “As I said, I try to keep it at bay, whether I’m successful or unsuccessful, partly for self-protection,” he stated. “A few years ago, I got into the habit of living in the here and now and enjoying it. It’s simply better when you don’t lose 19 games than when you don’t win 19. Then the atmosphere at the training ground in the morning is simply better; everything is easier. I’m no less ambitious, no less demanding, and just as annoyed when we lose, like now. Even if it was the first defeat in six months, I’m one of the worst losers in the world, and I’m still annoyed about it today.”

Behind the scenes, Glasner maintains a constructive dialogue with Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish. He has expressed his desire to continue building a significant project in London, contingent upon a shared vision between both parties. “We are talking almost every day,” Glasner remarked. “It is not that I need conditions or I want something; Crystal Palace wants to be successful and to continue this pathway, not just the last 18 months. What we are always discussing is how we can have the best chance to continue this pathway.”

Glasner emphasized the importance of mutual alignment in vision and goals between management and the club: “Oliver Glasner does not have the final solution, and Steve Parish doesn’t have it, but we discuss what is possible and what we can do. Working together and having a relationship makes sense if we share the same goals; otherwise, we cannot be successful. If two leaders have different visions, they will inevitably part ways. We are seeking to find a common pathway for the benefit of Crystal Palace, and if we cannot achieve that, we will conclude our discussions.”

Former player Didi Hamann believes it is only a matter of time before top clubs take notice of Glasner. In an interview with footballblog.co.uk, he praised Glasner’s achievements, noting, “He won the FA Cup and the Community Shield. He beat Liverpool three times in a row, and he’s doing wonderful things. Despite losing key players like Olise and Eze, he continues to win matches.”

Hamann further commended Glasner’s adept management of the Guehi situation last summer, stating, “I thought this season would be long for Palace, yet they are performing well again. If a manager excels over 18 months, clubs will certainly take notice.”

Regarding United’s interest, Hamann added that Glasner’s strong performance in the Premier League makes him an attractive option for clubs like Chelsea and United, even as the situation has stabilized somewhat at both clubs. “He’s certainly a manager who, when a big job does become available, will be among the first on the list.”

As Manchester United faces a challenging fixture schedule, beginning with an away match against Tottenham Hotspur, they will also contend with Everton and Glasner’s Crystal Palace following the international break. Chelsea’s upcoming matches against Wolves, Burnley, Barcelona, and Arsenal appear equally daunting. Glasner’s successful tenure in South London has solidified his reputation as one of football’s most respected contemporary managers, and should he maintain his impressive performance, the Premier League’s giants may soon find themselves vying for his services.