Oliver Glasner Keeps Crystal Palace Guessing as Games Pile Up

Crystal Palace's schedule is tightening as they chase European football into the new year. A 2-2 draw with Finland's KuPS means the Eagles must win two Conference League play-off ties to reach the knockout rounds.

What happened in the latest game

Palace were held to a 2-2 draw by KuPS, leaving them outside the automatic last-16 places in Europe's third-tier competition. They finished 10th in the group, so February play-offs are needed for a shot at the knockout stage.

Squad rotation and debutants

With a tight turnaround, Glasner fielded a smaller squad featuring several academy graduates. 16-year-old Joel Drakes-Thomas, 17-year-old Dean Benamar, and 18-year-old George King started, marking senior debuts for the trio.

Fixture congestion and expectations

Following the KuPS clash, Palace travel to Leeds United in the Premier League this Saturday, then face Arsenal in a Carabao Cup quarter-final next Tuesday. If they progress in Europe, two February ties will extend their campaign into the new year.

European play-off prospects

Demoted to the Conference League due to ownership rules, Palace now face two more play-off ties to reach the knockout rounds. The round draw is on 16 January, with Palace likely facing one of the bottom seeds. Potential opponents include Sigma Olomouc of the Czech Republic or Zrinjski Mostar from Bosnia and Herzegovina. As the seeded side, Palace would host the second leg.

Future and contracts

Glasner's position is uncertain as he enters the final six months of his contract, and the club is wary about losing a manager who has raised their profile. Talks over a new deal have been ongoing since March, but there is no clear sign of a conclusion. Centre-back Marc Guehi and midfielder Adam Wharton are also linked with other clubs, adding to the planning challenge.

Expert comment

Expert note: Former England defender Joleon Lescott argues Glasner can manage the European load by rotating the squad and resting experienced players in FA Cup ties. He told TNT Sports that depth and youth development could help balance Europe and domestic duties.

Can Palace go all the way?

It's still early, but Palace remain in reach of the competition title, a trophy English clubs have begun winning in recent editions. The run would add to the club's European memories and test Glasner's ambition to deliver success beyond domestic results.

With nine more fixtures to navigate if they push for the final, Palace know the path is steep but possible, especially if rotation and momentum align.

Looking ahead

The coming phase includes a busy mix of league, cup, and Europe, making every match crucial for Palace's ambition and Glasner's future with the club.

Summary

Palace's European dream persists despite not securing an automatic knockout spot. The team must navigate a packed schedule, rotate wisely, and win February play-off ties to reach the knockout rounds. Contract uncertainties and player movement add to the challenge, but faith in Glasner's leadership remains.

Key insight: Crystal Palace's European journey hinges on smart squad management and a successful playoff run. BBC Sport

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