Oliver Glasner Guides Crystal Palace to FA Cup Final, Urges Players to Embrace the Moment
Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has steered the South London club to a historic FA Cup final appearance against Manchester City, marking a major milestone in his debut season at Selhurst Park. Ahead of the Wembley clash, Glasner has urged his players to “enjoy the moment but stay focused”, while making key tactical changes most notably, the return of midfield orchestrator Adam Wharton to the starting XI.
🦅 Palace’s Unexpected Journey to Wembley
Appointed midseason, Glasner inherited a squad teetering on inconsistency and has since reshaped them into one of the most disciplined and dynamic teams in English football. His side has knocked out Premier League opposition en route to Wembley, capturing the imagination of fans and pundits alike.
- First FA Cup Final for Palace since 2016
- Glasner’s first major final in English football
- Wins over Wolves, Newcastle, and Brighton defined their cup run
“I told the players these matches don’t come around often. So play with joy, but with courage,” Glasner said in a pre final interview.
🧠 Tactical Tweaks and Wharton’s Return
In preparation for facing a Manchester City side stacked with attacking threats, Glasner has made key adjustments to his tactical approach, focusing on compact midfield structure and transition play.
- Adam Wharton returns to the starting lineup after a brief injury spell
- Expected midfield trio: Wharton, Hughes, and Eze balancing control with creativity
- Glasner may opt for a flexible 3-4-2-1, allowing wing backs to drop or push depending on City’s press
Wharton’s vision and tempo control could prove crucial in breaking City’s rhythm and launching counters.
🏆 Managing the Mental Game
While Manchester City enters the final as overwhelming favorites, Glasner has taken a grounded approach to the mental aspect of the match, shielding his players from pressure while instilling belief.
- Team meetings have emphasized resilience, collective responsibility, and staying calm under pressure
- Players like Mateta, Olise, and Andersen are expected to take on leadership roles on the pitch
- Palace’s underdog status may work in their favor especially if they keep the game close into the second half
The message from the manager has been consistent: “Respect the opponent, not the occasion.”
📰 Final Thoughts
Oliver Glasner has already etched his name in Crystal Palace history but a win at Wembley would immortalize him. With Adam Wharton back in the heart of midfield and belief running high, the Eagles will take the field not just to compete, but to make dreams come true.
