The Rise and Struggles of Oliver Glasner at Crystal Palace: A Season of Contrasts
Oliver Glasner’s appointment as manager of Crystal Palace was met with widespread optimism. Having previously led Eintracht Frankfurt to a Europa League title, his arrival at Selhurst Park was seen as a significant coup for the club. In less than three months, Glasner transformed a side that was looking over its shoulder into one that achieved a joint-highest Premier League points tally. However, as the new season unfolds, the initial euphoria has given way to anxiety, raising questions about the sustainability of his success.
A Promising Start
Glasner’s impact was immediate and profound. The so-called "new-manager bounce" saw Palace embark on a remarkable run, winning six of their last seven games in the previous season. The crowning moment came in a stunning 5-0 demolition of Aston Villa, where Jean-Philippe Mateta scored his 13th goal in as many games under Glasner’s stewardship. This performance not only solidified the team’s position in the Premier League but also set the stage for a summer filled with hope and anticipation.
However, Glasner was quick to temper expectations, reminding fans that the primary goal was to avoid relegation. "The last seven games of last season were great, the first 31 weren’t," he stated, acknowledging the challenges that lay ahead. Despite this, the memories of their late-season form lingered, making the current struggles all the more difficult to digest.
A Troubling Start to the New Season
As the new season commenced, the optimism surrounding Crystal Palace began to wane. Seven games in, the team had only matched the five goals scored in their final game of the previous season. A failure to secure a win against Nottingham Forest would mark their longest winless start to a season in 31 years, a statistic that has sent ripples of anxiety through the fanbase.
A thread on the club’s official forum titled "How worried are you about our poor start?" has stretched beyond 32 pages, reflecting the growing concern among supporters. Glasner, despite being the fourth-favourite to be the first Premier League manager sacked this season, has not yet faced significant scrutiny from the board or fans. But the pressure is mounting.
Transfer Window Challenges
The summer transfer window presented Glasner with both opportunities and challenges. While the arrivals of Adam Wharton and Daniel Munoz initially sparked hope, the departures of key players like Michael Olise and Jordan Ayew left the squad looking thin. Olise, in particular, was a standout performer, contributing 13 assists last season—almost a quarter of the team’s total. His sensational start in the Bundesliga has only added to the pain of his absence.
The new signings have struggled to find their footing, particularly in the final third, where Palace has faced the most difficulties. Eddie Nketiah and Ismaila Sarr, despite their talent, have yet to provide the spark needed to replace Olise’s creativity. Their partnership has shown promise but lacks the chemistry that Olise and Eberechi Eze once shared.
The Impact of Key Absences
The absence of Olise has been felt acutely, especially in Eze’s performances. The England international has struggled to replicate his previous form, scoring just once this season and missing crucial chances, including a key opportunity against Liverpool. Statistics reveal a decline in his ability to create high-quality chances and beat defenders, further emphasizing the impact of Olise’s departure.
Daichi Kamada, another high-profile signing, has also faced challenges adapting to Glasner’s system. Initially brought in with high expectations, Kamada has struggled to find his place, often being deployed in an unfamiliar defensive midfield role. Glasner’s tactical decisions have come under scrutiny, particularly as the team has failed to impose itself in games.
The Road Ahead
As the season progresses, Glasner faces the daunting task of adapting his tactics to fit a squad that is still finding its identity. With tough fixtures against Nottingham Forest and Tottenham looming, the pressure is on for the manager to find solutions. The upcoming international break may provide a much-needed opportunity for reflection and adjustment.
Despite the current struggles, there is a sense that panic is unwarranted. The team has shown flashes of potential, and the new signings need time to settle in. The absence of Olise is significant, but it is not the sole reason for the team’s poor start. Glasner’s ability to adapt and find a winning formula will be crucial in the coming weeks.
Conclusion
Oliver Glasner’s journey at Crystal Palace has been a tale of contrasts—an exhilarating rise followed by a challenging start to the new season. While the initial euphoria has faded, there remains a glimmer of hope that the manager can navigate the current difficulties and lead the team back to form. As the club looks ahead, the focus will be on finding the right balance, integrating new players, and rekindling the spirit that once made Palace a formidable force. Time will tell if Glasner can once again do no wrong, but for now, the pressure is on to deliver results and restore faith among the fans.