Oliver Glasner is keeping his feet firmly on the ground despite Crystal Palace's impressive start to the Premier League season. Following their recent 2-1 victory against Fulham, the Eagles have soared to fourth place in the league standings. However, the Austrian manager is refusing to get carried away with the team's lofty position, emphasizing the importance of maintaining focus and continuing to improve.
The match against Fulham saw Crystal Palace secure a hard-fought win, with goals from Eddie Nketiah and Marc Guehi sealing the victory. Fulham's Harry Wilson scored a stunning goal from outside the box to equalize, but Guehi's late header ensured that Palace took all three points. The Cottagers were left frustrated after Emile Smith Rowe's goal was disallowed by VAR for a marginal offside in the build-up.
Despite the victory and the team's promising league position, Glasner is keen to keep expectations in check. When asked about the possibility of a bonus for being fourth in December, Glasner responded, "I'll have to ask if we get a bonus if we are fourth in December – I don't think so". He stressed that his primary concern is the team's performance and the continued development of his players.
Glasner highlighted the importance of squad depth and the energy brought by the substitutes in the Fulham game. He specifically praised Nathaniel Clyne, who hadn't played for months but delivered an outstanding performance. Glasner said, "All the players who came in and brought great energy to the pitch and, for me, man of the match was Nathaniel Clyne". He further added, "He didn't play for months, I didn't give him minutes but at every single training session he's available, he does his job 100 per cent". Glasner emphasized that Clyne embodies the attitude he wants from his players: always ready to support the team.
Glasner's managerial career has seen success at various clubs. Before joining Crystal Palace in February 2024, he managed Eintracht Frankfurt, leading them to win the UEFA Europa League in 2022. He has also managed VfL Wolfsburg and LASK, achieving Champions League qualification with both teams.
Since arriving at Selhurst Park, Glasner has implemented his preferred 3-4-2-1 formation, focusing on quick transitions and combination play. Palace ended the previous season strongly, securing six wins in their last seven games and equaling their highest-ever Premier League points tally. In May 2025, Glasner led Crystal Palace to their first major trophy in the club's history, winning the FA Cup against Manchester City.
While the fans are understandably excited about Crystal Palace's current form, Oliver Glasner's focus remains on the process. He is determined to ensure that the team continues to work hard, improve, and maintain the right attitude, regardless of their position in the league table.
