The search for Crystal Palace's next manager has intensified, with betting markets providing intriguing insight into potential successors to Oliver Glasner. The Austrian's impending departure from Selhurst Park has sparked widespread speculation about who will take the helm at the Premier League club.
Glasner's Imminent Exit Sets Managerial Race in Motion
Oliver Glasner will leave Crystal Palace when his contract expires at season's end, though recent performances suggest his departure could arrive even sooner. This uncertainty has prompted football betting sites to compile detailed lists of potential replacements, creating a fascinating landscape of contenders vying for the Selhurst Park hot seat.
Southgate Emerges as Surprise Frontrunner
Former England manager Sir Gareth Southgate has surprisingly emerged as the bookmakers' favourite to replace Glasner. Currently priced at 7/1 with several major betting platforms, Southgate represents a compelling option despite his lengthy absence from club management.
The 55-year-old hasn't managed at club level since leaving Middlesbrough in 2009, but his eight-year tenure with England saw remarkable success including two European Championship finals and World Cup semi-final and quarter-final appearances. His connection to Crystal Palace runs deep, having spent seven years at the club as a player, captaining the side at just 23 years old and making 152 appearances for the Eagles.
Recent comments from Southgate's friend, Bromley manager Andy Woodman, suggest the former England boss is ready to return to football management. However, Palace supporters appear divided about whether Southgate represents the right appointment for their club's future direction.
International Contenders Enter the Frame
Beyond Southgate, several intriguing international candidates feature prominently in the betting markets. Current Getafe manager Jose Bordalas shares equal favouritism at 7/1, bringing a distinctive and sometimes controversial style that has divided opinion throughout LaLiga.
The 61-year-old Spaniard has enjoyed success in his second spell at Getafe and previously guided Alavés back to Spain's top flight. His most notable achievement came at Valencia, where he led the club to the Copa del Rey final, ultimately losing on penalties to Real Betis.
Roger Schmidt, currently serving as Global Football Advisor with Japan's J. League, follows closely at 8/1. The German manager boasts impressive credentials including a Primeira Liga title with Benfica in 2023 and Champions League qualification during his tenure at Bayer Leverkusen. His experience across multiple European leagues makes him an attractive proposition for Palace's hierarchy.
Domestic Options Provide Alternative Pathways
The Championship offers two compelling English candidates, with Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna and Coventry City's Frank Lampard both available at 12/1. McKenna has performed wonders at Portman Road, guiding Ipswich from League One to Premier League contention while establishing himself as one of England's most promising young managers.
Lampard brings substantial Premier League experience from his spells at Chelsea and Everton, though his current focus remains on Coventry's promotion push. The Sky Blues currently lead the Championship table, and success this season could influence Lampard's decision-making regarding any potential Palace approach.
Betting Landscape Reveals Wide-Open Contest
The diversity of candidates and varying odds across different bookmakers suggests this managerial race remains genuinely open. Some betting platforms install Schmidt as favourite while others favour Southgate or Bordalas, reflecting the uncertainty surrounding Palace's eventual choice.
All leading contenders offer distinct advantages: Southgate provides local connection and international pedigree, Bordalas brings proven LaLiga success, Schmidt offers European experience, while McKenna and Lampard represent exciting domestic options. Chairman Steve Parish faces a crucial decision that will significantly impact Crystal Palace's trajectory in coming seasons.
The timing of Glasner's departure adds further complexity to the situation. Should results deteriorate, Palace might accelerate their search, potentially altering the current betting landscape and candidate availability.
As the season progresses, this managerial speculation will undoubtedly intensify, with betting markets continuing to reflect the latest developments and insider information emerging from Selhurst Park.
