When Oliver Glasner took the reins at Crystal Palace in February 2024, there were a lot of expectations for the former Frankfurt Manager.

Fresh off a Europa League triumph with Eintracht Frankfurt in 2022, the Austrian tactician was seen as a game-changer for the South London club. However, inheriting a team languishing in 15th place and just five points above the relegation zone posed a formidable challenge.

Glasner’s inaugural season proved that he was the man for the job, even though results didn’t come as expected. Implementing a dynamic 3-4-2-1 formation, he kindled a new fire in the squad, leading them to a 10th-place finish and equaling their highest Premier League points tally of 49.

Notable victories included a 1-0 win over Liverpool at Anfield and a commanding 4-0 triumph against Manchester United at Selhurst Park. Jean-Philippe Mateta emerged as a key figure, becoming the first Premier League player to score in each of a manager’s first six home games for a club since 1997.

The 2024–25 season saw Palace maintain their upward trajectory. Despite finishing 12th in the league, the highlight was their historic FA Cup run. In the semi-finals, they dispatched Aston Villa 3-0, with Eberechi Eze and Ismaila Sarr delivering standout performances. This set the stage for a monumental final against Manchester City.

In the FA Cup final, Glasner’s tactical prowess was on full display. Opting for a disciplined defensive structure and swift counter-attacks, Palace managed to stifle City’s renowned possession-based play. Eze’s 16th-minute volley, following a rapid counter-attack, proved decisive. Goalkeeper Dean Henderson’s heroics, including a crucial penalty save, ensured a 1-0 victory, securing Palace’s first-ever major trophy and a spot in the 2025–26 UEFA Europa League.

Glasner’s impact at Crystal Palace has been one for the books, and Palace faithfuls won’t forget it. From relegation candidates to FA Cup champions, his tenure has redefined the club’s ambitions and established a new era of success.