Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner faces a pivotal decision on his future, with his contract at Selhurst Park set to expire this summer unless he agrees to an extension. The Austrian's impressive work in South London has reportedly attracted attention from several elite European clubs, including Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Bayern Munich.
The Contract Standoff and Growing Interest
Oliver Glasner's current deal with Crystal Palace concludes at the end of the 2024/25 season. The club, led by chairman Steve Parish, has attempted to secure his long-term commitment on multiple occasions. Initial talks took place in March after interest from RB Leipzig, with further discussions held over the summer. However, Glasner has so far been reluctant to sign an extension, preferring to keep his options open.
This contractual situation has placed the 49-year-old coach firmly in the spotlight. His stock rose significantly after delivering Crystal Palace's first major trophy—the FA Cup—with a memorable victory over Manchester City at Wembley last season. That success, coupled with a stylish brand of football, has made him a sought-after figure.
A Manager in Demand: United, Bayern and Tottenham Links
The vacancy at Manchester United, following Ruben Amorim's departure, has intensified speculation. Glasner is currently the bookmakers' favourite for the Old Trafford role. When questioned about the links this week, the typically witty Glasner played a straight bat, stating simply: "I'm not a gambler."
However, his more revealing comments came on the structure of a successful football club. "Every successful company is a discussion," Glasner said. "If you have smart people there... and you have your own opinion, and you don't need to always say: 'Yes, yes, yes.' If it's just 'yes men' you're not successful." This philosophy of collaborative leadership is likely to appeal to United's new sporting director, Jason Wilcox.
Interest is not confined to England. German giants Bayern Munich considered Glasner last summer before appointing Vincent Kompany. Tottenham are also understood to be monitoring his situation. Siegmund Gruber, CEO of Austrian club LASK where Glasner previously worked, confirmed that several "big clubs" had been inquiring about the coach even before Palace's FA Cup triumph, warning them to prepare for his incisive questioning.
The Tactical Fit: Can Glasner's Style Translate to a Super-Club?
The central question for any potential suitor, particularly Manchester United, is whether Glasner's proven tactical approach can succeed at a club with different expectations. His philosophy is rooted in the high-pressing, counter-attacking principles honed under Ralf Rangnick at Red Bull Salzburg.
This style has flourished at Eintracht Frankfurt and Crystal Palace—teams often comfortable without possession. This season, Palace average 43.1% possession in the Premier League. In contrast, Manchester United average 54% possession. The shift required at a club where dominating the ball is a fundamental expectation is significant.
Andreas Heidenreich, sports editor of Austrian newspaper Kurier, summarised the intrigue: "Glasner suits a smaller club perfectly. That is what we all know... So that is the only question not to be answered so far. Can Oliver Glasner coach a club where they have around 60% ball possession in every match?"
What Happens Next?
Glasner has indicated that a decision on his future will follow further talks with Steve Parish in the coming weeks. He has also stated that his choice will not be contingent on Palace's activity in the summer transfer window, a notable departure from previous criticisms about squad depth.
There is a growing belief within football circles that this could be his final season at Crystal Palace. In Austria, the expectation is for him to take the next step. "Everyone in Austria is expecting him to leave and they are excited to see him at a really big club," says Heidenreich. For now, the intelligent, independent-minded Glasner holds the cards, with a summer of major change on the horizon.
