Crystal Palace's recent loss to Manchester United has highlighted issues stemming from their quiet transfer window, according to Oliver Glasner. The Eagles suffered their first home defeat of the Premier League season at Selhurst Park, with United overturning a deficit to win 2-1. This result ended Palace's 12-game unbeaten run at home and cost them a chance to climb to fifth in the standings.
Glasner expressed concerns about the lack of squad depth due to limited summer signings. Despite playing more matches than United because of their Conference League commitments, Palace only added five senior players before the transfer window closed on September 1. They also sold key player Eberechi Eze but managed to retain Marc Guehi despite interest
from Liverpool.
The coach, overseeing his 200th game in Europe's top leagues, believes the team is feeling the effects of not strengthening their squad. "If you play European football for the first time in your history, you should invest and not save," he stated. He acknowledged that while they are still performing well across competitions, the lack of reinforcements is becoming evident.
Reflecting on missed opportunities during the summer transfer window, Glasner admitted that January would be too late for new additions as over half of their games would be played by then. "Everything we are facing now, it's not surprising," he said. He emphasised that they missed chances in July and August to ease their current challenges but remained optimistic about improving together.
During the match against United, Palace had 14 shots on goal but were undone by two set-pieces. Glasner was frustrated by this aspect of their play, stating, "If we need more than one minute to be organised for a free-kick, it is our fault. " He felt they deserved the lead and noted that small margins made the difference.
Performance Analysis
Despite acknowledging fatigue and rotation as potential excuses, Glasner praised parts of Palace's performance against United. He noted that Manchester United had played significantly fewer games this season. "The result really hurts at the moment," he admitted but stressed that learning from such experiences is crucial even if it is painful.
We appreciate the support as always. We go again on Wednesdaypic.twitter.com/LmUOsaUi1r
- Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) November 30, 2025
Glasner highlighted that while performances have been good in many areas, there are lessons to be learned from this setback. The team remains determined to stick together and improve moving forward.
