Crystal Palace has appointed Pierre Sage as their new manager, signing him to a contract until the summer of 2029. The Eagles reached a compensation agreement with RC Lens, allowing Sage to leave his previous position. The 47-year-old emerged as the top choice following Andoni Iraola's appointment as head coach at Liverpool.

This change comes after Oliver Glasner opted not to renew his contract at Selhurst Park, which was set to expire on June 30. Glasner led Palace through a highly successful era, clinching the FA Cup and finishing with a victory in the Conference League final in May.

In his first statement as manager, Sage expressed his excitement about joining Crystal Palace, stating:

"It's amazing to be here at Crystal Palace. I am excited by the history of the club, and by recent seasons."

He emphasized his ambition to continue the club's winning legacy, aiming to make the fans proud and happy.

Steve Parish, chairman of Crystal Palace, shared his enthusiasm for Sage's appointment, highlighting the coach's recent trophy-winning season with Lens and their strong finish in Ligue 1.

Before the announcement, Sage bid an emotional farewell to RC Lens, thanking supporters for their collective achievements, including a second-place finish in Ligue 1, just behind Paris Saint-Germain.

Sage's coaching history includes a successful spell at Lyon, and he is known for employing a back three formation, similar to Glasner's tactics. Despite being new to the Premier League, he shares the club's ambition for continued success after their recent trophy haul.