Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has opened the door to a potential future in Serie A, while dismissing the notion of a significant quality gap between the Italian top flight and the Premier League. The Austrian's comments came on the eve of his side's crucial UEFA Conference League quarter-final second leg against Fiorentina in Florence.
No Defensive Mentality for Commanding Eagles
Despite carrying a formidable 3-0 lead from the first leg at Selhurst Park, Glasner was adamant that his Crystal Palace side will not adopt a defensive posture at the Stadio Franchi. " Nobody here has that mentality," he stated firmly during his pre-match press conference. " Since I arrived in London, our idea has always been to demonstrate our value against any opponent, home or away. Tomorrow our approach will be the same, we will not be defending."
This attacking philosophy has served Palace well under Glasner and will be tested against a Fiorentina side he expects to be far more aggressive on home soil. He also confirmed that players on yellow card warnings would not influence his starting lineup selection.
Serie A Ambition and League Comparison
When questioned about the differences between England's and Italy's top divisions, particularly after a week where Premier League clubs dominated their Serie A counterparts in Europe, Glasner offered a balanced perspective. " I don't think there is much difference between the two leagues," he said, referencing his observations of both Palace's first leg and Aston Villa's victory over Bologna. " The way teams play is different, but I would not say anything beyond that."
Intriguingly, the former Eintracht Frankfurt boss revealed a personal interest in the Italian game. " I follow Serie A closely and I am open to considering the idea of coming to Italy, certainly," Glasner admitted. However, he tempered this by emphasising that club ambition, not location, is his primary driver, and that his immediate focus remains solely on Crystal Palace.
Team News and Franchi Atmosphere
On the injury front, Glasner confirmed that striker Jean-Philippe Mateta has recovered from his issue and is available, though not yet at full match fitness. The manager's comment that he hopes Mateta " can play a good World Cup with France" raised subtle questions about the player's long-term future in South London. The only confirmed absentee is forward Guessand, who is ruled out for the next fortnight.
Glasner also spoke about the anticipated atmosphere in Florence, expressing admiration for the home support while noting his surprise at seeing a section of the Stadio Franchi closed during Fiorentina's recent league match against Lazio. " I am certain the fans will create a great atmosphere," he said, acknowledging the challenge that awaits his team.
Venue: Stadio Franchi, Florence
Aggregate Score: Crystal Palace lead 3-0
Palace Absentee: Guessand (injured)
Key Return: Jean-Philippe Mateta (available)
Key Takeaways
- Attack-Minded Approach: Glasner insists Palace will not sit back and defend their 3-0 aggregate lead in Florence.
- Serie A Interest: The Palace boss is open to managing in Italy one day, citing his close following of the league.
- League Parity: Glasner sees little overall quality difference between the Premier League and Serie A, only stylistic variations.
- Squad Update: Mateta returns from injury, while Guessand is ruled out for two weeks.
- Atmosphere Expected: The manager anticipates a fiery reception from Fiorentina's fans and a more aggressive performance from the Italian side.
