Crystal Palace is bracing for significant change as the club confirms that manager Oliver Glasner will leave at the end of the 2025–26 season and captain Marc Guéhi is on the verge of a high‑profile transfer to Manchester City. These twin developments mark a turning point for the Eagles midway through the Premier League campaign and follow one of the most successful seasons in the club’s recent history.
End of an Era: Glasner’s Departure
Austrian coach Oliver Glasner announced on 16 January 2026 that he will step down as Crystal Palace manager when his contract expires at the end of the current season. The decision, reportedly made in October 2025, comes after Glasner steered the club to historic achievements, including winning the FA Cup for the first time in the club’s history in 2025 and lifting the FA Community Shield later that summer.
Glasner joined Palace with a reputation for organization and tactical discipline. Under his leadership, the Eagles enjoyed a breakthrough period, achieving their highest Premier League points tally and qualifying for continental competition through the UEFA Conference League. However, this season has brought challenges both on and off the pitch, including inconsistent league form and internal tensions over squad development.
While Glasner has yet to confirm his next career move, media speculation links him with interest from clubs like Manchester United—though he has stressed he remains focused on finishing the season strongly with Palace.
Defensive Leader to Depart: Marc Guéhi’s Big Move
At the same press briefing, Glasner confirmed that club captain Marc Guéhi will not renew his contract with Palace and is set to leave the club, with Manchester City emerging as the leading destination. The England international, 25, has informed the Eagles he will move on when his deal expires on 30 June 2026, and discussions with City are reportedly in their final stages.
Manchester City’s interest comes amid an urgent need to reinforce their defense, with injuries to key defenders forcing Pep Guardiola’s side to pursue reinforcements in the January window. City are reportedly ready to agree to a deal worth around £20 million for the center‑back, who played a central role in Crystal Palace’s FA Cup triumph last season.
Guéhi’s leadership and defensive quality have been pillars of Palace’s progress in recent seasons. His decision to reject a contract extension has opened the door for several top clubs, with City now taking the lead after a previously collapsed move to Liverpool last summer.
Internal Tensions and Palace’s Squad Challenges
The decision to sell Guéhi appears to have strained relations within the club. Glasner publicly expressed frustration earlier this season about squad depth and transfer strategy, particularly regarding the departure of key players without adequate replacements. He said, in post‑match comments, that the team felt “abandoned” due to thin squad numbers—a sentiment that reflects broader concerns over the club’s long‑term planning.
Despite these challenges, Palace remains competitive. They are currently mid-table in the Premier League and engaged in European competition through the Conference League, offering some solace amid the upheaval.
What’s Next for Crystal Palace?
Crystal Palace now faces a pivotal few months. With Glasner’s exit already scheduled and Guéhi’s departure imminent, the club must begin planning for a post‑Dream Team era. Candidates for the managerial position are being discussed in media circles, while the defensive lineup—long anchored by Guéhi—must be reimagined.
For fans at Selhurst Park, this period of transition will test the club’s resilience and strategic direction. After historic highs with FA Cup glory, the Eagles must adapt quickly to maintain momentum and build for the future.
