Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has assured Manchester City fans that he will field his strongest possible lineup against Arsenal on the final day of the Premier League season. The title race is set to go down to the wire, with Arsenal currently two points ahead of Manchester City, though the Gunners could clinch the title before the last weekend if they beat Burnley on Monday and City slip up at Bournemouth on Tuesday.
Glasner's Team Selection Promise
Speaking after a 2-2 draw with Brentford, Glasner emphasized that Palace will not rest players ahead of their UEFA Conference League final against Rayo Vallecano, which takes place just three days after the Arsenal clash. “We will play the strongest team against Arsenal,” Glasner stated. “We do it for us, not for City or Arsenal. It's the last game at Selhurst Park, and our fans deserve a top performance.”
While Glasner acknowledged that some minutes may be managed, he insisted that the approach will not change. “Of course we will manage minutes a little bit because we have to, but that doesn't change anything,” he added.
Injury Concerns
Palace defenders Chadi Riad, Maxence Lacroix, and Chris Richards all picked up issues during the draw with Brentford. Riad suffered cramp, Lacroix had a blurred eye after being poked, and Richards twisted his ankle. Glasner expressed concern over Richards, saying, “His ankle is quite swollen, so I have a bit of concern for the next couple of days. But Riad and Lacroix will be fine.”
Manchester City's final game is at home to Aston Villa, four days after Villa face Freiburg in the Europa League final. The title race remains finely poised, with Arsenal needing to maintain their lead or hope for a Palace upset on the final day.
