- Pierre Sage suggested as a new target
- Andoni Iraola set for a different future
- Palace still considering other options
Crystal Palace are in the difficult process of selecting Oliver Glasner’s successor, with the Eagles expressing interest in Pierre Sage as first-choice.
The Conference League victory on Wednesday 27 May saw Glasner’s farewell after the Austrian confirmed his exit from South London despite winning his third trophy with the Eagles. Palace are now scrambling to find his replacement.
RC Lens coach Pierre Sage has now become a front runner in the Eagles hunt for a new coach. After becoming coach in July 2025 the 47-year-old guided Lens to the French Cup, for the first time, and to a second place finish in Ligue 1.
Sage has two years left on his contract at the French side, but could be persuaded to leave to face a new challenge of the Premier League. Palace’s Conference League victory, which secured Europa League football in South London, could help persuade the Frenchman.
Palace look to Page after Iraola update
Palace have begun to explore other options after Premier League competitors, Liverpool, look set to take frontrunner Andoni Iraola. Alan Nixon on Patreon revealed that Sage has been suggested by a leading member of staff.
Sage also appears to be a popular choice among Palace supporters after his success this season with Lens, with fans preferring a solid set of results over having Premier League experience. His name has been in contention for other managerial vacancies with Liverpool even taking an interest.
Previously Iraola was viewed as the top contender for the vacancy in South London but the exit of Arne Slot from Liverpool has complicated matters.
The Bournemouth manager was highly admired by the Eagles due to his Premier League experience and the similar club conditions he faced with the Cherries. Yet the Reds look set to secure the 43-year-old ahead of the new season.
Palace need to act fast to prevent the next best options from being taken, and Sage’s tactical flexibility is something the Eagles would benefit from ahead of next season’s busy campaign.
