Crystal Palace, a Premier League club, is expected to hold discussions with Lens boss Pierre Sage early this week. This move comes as the club seeks to replace Oliver Glasner. The Eagles had initially set their sights on Andoni Iraola as their first-choice candidate. However, they are likely to face disappointment as Iraola is set to begin formal talks with Liverpool in the coming days. This follows the sacking of Arne Slot on Saturday. Despite having made a firm proposal to Iraola, it seems he will be heading elsewhere. As such, Crystal Palace has begun exploring alternative options for their next head coach.
Under the leadership of chairman Steve Parish, Crystal Palace is not rushing into any decisions regarding their next head coach. The south London club is currently examining several potential candidates for the position.
Among these candidates is Pierre Sage who has been developing a reputation as one of Europe's brightest coaches. BBC Sport first revealed Palace's interest in Sage on 8 May but at that time, they were focused on trying to appoint Iraola from Bournemouth. Sage took over Lens in June last year and led them to a second-place finish in Ligue 1 and victory in Coupe de France - both significant achievements for the club.
Other potential candidates
In addition to Sage, other potential candidates include Coventry boss Frank Lampard; Ipswich manager Kieran McKenna; former Eintracht Frankfurt boss Dino Toppmoller; ex-Spurs boss Thomas Frank and former Burnley and Nottingham Forest manager Sean Dyche - some of whom have already held talks with Crystal Palace officials.
Lampard has key admirers at Selhurst Park and his successful stint at Coventry has further enhanced his reputation. However, releasing him from Coventry could prove costly, creating a potential stumbling block. Similarly, McKenna has led Ipswich back to the top-flight but his high wages and a release clause worth at least £5m could pose challenges. Frank, Toppmoller and Dyche are currently without clubs making them more straightforward appointments.
Crystal Palace is keeping an open mind in their managerial search. The club wants to take its time before deciding on their new first-choice target. This careful approach ensures that they make the best decision for the future of the club.
