Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner stunned the football world by confirming his departure from Selhurst Park at the season's end during a bombshell Friday press conference.
The Austrian tactician, fresh off delivering FA Cup success last term, dropped further transfer shocks by revealing Marc Guehi's imminent move to Manchester City and greenlighting Jean-Philippe Mateta's January exit, positioning himself squarely as Manchester United's prime target amid Old Trafford's ongoing managerial turmoil.
Glasner disclosed informing Palace chairman Steve Parish of his plans back in October, fueling intense speculation that he's earmarking a blockbuster switch to Manchester United, where Erik ten Hag's successors have faltered and Ruben Amorim struggles
with squad disharmony. The 51-year-old's Europa Conference League expertise, highlighted by his 2022 Europa League triumph with Eintracht Frankfurt, and proven Premier League knockout pedigree make him an ideal fit for United's rebuild under Sir Jim Ratcliffe's INEOS regime, especially with Palace's upcoming Zrinjski Mostar playoff tie offering silverware that could sweeten his resume.
"A decision has already been taken, months ago. I had a meeting with Steve in October, the international break," Glasner said. "We had a very long talk, and I told him I will not sign a new contract. We agreed at the time it was best to keep it between us. It's best that we could do that and keep it confidential for three months. I told the team today, because I think now it's important to have clarity. "
Glasner insisted his exit stems purely from seeking fresh horizons, distancing it from Guehi's City switch or Mateta's potential sale-moves that could net Palace £100m+ to fund rebuilding under incoming boss.
"I told Steve I'm just looking for a new challenge. I told him in October, it's nothing to do with the transfer window," he clarified.
Will Oliver Glasner join Man United?
With United desperate for stability post-multiple interim spells, Glasner's availability aligns perfectly with their January reset, potentially leapfrogging other targets like Thomas Frank. Palace now eye life without their architect ahead of Saturday's Sunderland trip, but Glasner's vow rings clear: "I haven't spoken to any other club, I told the players that and promised them today I will give my best to give the best season in Crystal Palace history. I will do everything to help bring a trophy back to Selhurst Park. "
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