Crystal Palace Eyes Pierre Sage as New Head Coach After Successful Season at Lens
Crystal Palace shifts its managerial focus to Pierre Sage, currently in talks to become their new head coach. This decision follows Sage's impressive performance leading Lens to a second-place finish in Ligue 1 this season, just six points behind Paris Saint-Germain. Initially, Andoni Iraola was the top candidate to replace Oliver Glasner, but he is now in discussions with Liverpool regarding the managerial position left by Arne Slot. Sage, who took over a Lens team that finished eighth last June, transformed them into title contenders and also clinched the Coupe de France. In addition to Sage, Frank Lampard was considered, but Crystal Palace hesitated due to the £5m compensation fee required for his services after he led Coventry to promotion from the Championship in April. Oliver Glasner, who departs as Palace’s most successful manager after securing both the FA Cup and a recent Conference League victory, expressed gratitude in an open letter to fans, calling his time at the club a "privilege." With Sage keen on joining Crystal Palace, expectations are high that a deal will soon be finalized.
Source: The Guardian Sport - 2026-06-02