How Far Can Glasner Take Crystal Palace in 2025?

Introduction to glasner's impact at crystal palace

Crystal Palace’s 2025 season has been nothing short of remarkable, with the team standing as the only unbeaten side in the Premier League after an 18-game run. This impressive form has sparked widespread discussion about manager Oliver Glasner’s influence and the club’s future prospects. But just how far can Glasner take the Eagles, and is their current success sustainable?

Crystal Palace’s unbeaten run and league performance

Crystal Palace’s 18-game unbeaten streak is the joint longest in the club’s history, placing them firmly among the Premier League’s most resilient sides this season. Glasner’s tactical nous and disciplined approach have played a key role in this resurgence.

According to Opta’s advanced prediction model, which simulates every Premier League fixture 10,000 times, Palace are projected to finish fourth with a 43% chance of qualifying for the Champions League. This projection surpasses traditional top-six contenders like Chelsea (22.6%), Newcastle (15.2%), and Tottenham (13.9%).

Such a forecast underlines the significant improvement under Glasner and positions Palace as genuine contenders for European qualification for the first time in Premier League history. For context, the club’s best ever league finish was third in 1990-91 under Steve Coppell, but Palace have never broken into the top ten before this season.

Statistical analysis of Palace’s form in 2025

Palace’s exceptional performance is not just anecdotal. Since the start of 2025, the Eagles have an expected goals (xG) tally of 46.2, placing them second only to Liverpool. Defensively, they have been formidable, conceding an expected goals total of just 29.4. This means their overall expected goals difference stands at +18.6, a statistic bettered only by the league leaders.

This data highlights Palace’s balance: potent attack combined with a robust defence. However, it is important to note that much of their success came with attacking midfielder Eberechi Eze in the squad. Eze’s transfer to Arsenal near the end of the window leaves a gap that newcomer Yeremy Pino has begun to fill, but the impact of losing a key playmaker cannot be underestimated.

Challenges and opportunities of European competition

Beyond the domestic league, Palace have ventured into European football via the Conference League. They have already navigated two qualifying rounds and are set to face Dynamo Kyiv in the group stage. This additional fixture load presents challenges for Glasner’s relatively shallow squad but also offers a historic opportunity for the club.

Opta rates Palace as favourites to lift the Conference League trophy, with a 53.5% chance according to their model. This puts them ahead of formidable contenders such as Fiorentina, who have twice finished runners-up. Should Palace succeed, it would mark the club’s first major European silverware and a landmark achievement.

Glasner’s pedigree in European competitions is proven; he led Eintracht Frankfurt to Europa League glory in 2022. A back-to-back continental trophy with Palace would dramatically raise his profile and secure his position as one of Europe’s most sought-after managers.

Squad depth and the road ahead

One of the key questions for Palace is whether their current squad can sustain the rigours of competing on multiple fronts. The Premier League’s demanding schedule coupled with European matches will test squad rotation and fitness management. Glasner’s ability to adapt tactics and rely on emerging talent will be vital.

Clubs like Manchester United have often struggled balancing domestic and European commitments; for insights on managing squad demands, readers can refer to our Manchester United tables explained: current standings and insights article.

Implications for crystal palace’s future ambitions

Should Palace continue their current trajectory, the club could transform its status within English football. Champions League qualification would attract higher calibre players and increased revenue, facilitating sustained competitiveness.

Moreover, success in the Conference League — a tournament gaining prestige — would boost the club’s profile internationally. Glasner’s approach emphasises disciplined defending and efficient attack, a style well suited to knockout football.

However, maintaining this momentum requires navigating potential pitfalls such as injuries, fixture congestion, and the psychological pressures of expectation. Palace’s ability to handle these factors will define their season’s outcome.

Conclusion: glasner’s legacy in the making

Oliver Glasner’s impact on Crystal Palace is already significant, with the club enjoying their best form in decades. Statistical models and current performances suggest there is more to come, with a strong chance of European qualification and a serious shot at continental silverware.

While challenges remain, particularly regarding squad depth and adapting to the loss of key players, the Eagles have never looked more formidable. Fans and neutrals alike will be watching eagerly to see if Glasner can elevate Palace into the Premier League’s elite and secure a historic trophy.

For those interested in how broadcast rights shape fan engagement this season, the Sky Sports for EFL fixtures: how to watch your team this season article offers comprehensive viewing options.