Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner won the Coach of the Year award at Austria’s Sporthilfe Gala on Wednesday. It probably wasn’t a closely run thing.
The Eagles boss is something of an Austrian hero, with his success in London motivating national pride. On top of that, there’s an affinity with Crystal Palace building generally, partly thanks to preseason trips.
Prior to attending the award ceremony, Laola1 interviewed the 51-year-old to discuss his spell at Crystal Palace. Glasner is always happy to speak to the Austrian media, and is always open.
The Premier League club appointed the 51-year-old in February 2024 and haven’t looked back. Last season, he steered Crystal Palace to FA Cup glory, their first major trophy.
On September 2nd, Glasner highlighted his plans for the London club. Later that month, he was quizzed about having a Champions League dream.
Oliver Glasner was aware of Eagles potential
Laola1 have asked the manager whether he thought he’d achieve what he has at Crystal Palace.
“Honestly, no. I knew there was potential at the club, but for us to actually win the FA Cup and the Community Shield and achieve so much positive change is more than I expected. On the other hand, I still think we’re not done yet,” he said.
At the weekend, the English club suffered a 2-1 loss to Everton, after a late goal from Jack Grealish. With that defeat, Crystal Palace ended their unbeaten run.
Glasner’s impressive work at Selhurst Park hasn’t gone unnoticed and he’s been linked to top clubs. When asked about such rumours, the manager talked about his side’s last defeat.
“As I said, I try to keep it at bay, whether I’m successful or unsuccessful, partly for self-protection. A few years ago, I got into the habit of living in the here and now and enjoying it,” Glasner explained.
“It’s simply better when you don’t lose 19 games than when you don’t win 19. Then the atmosphere at the training ground in the morning is simply better; everything is easier.
“I’m no less ambitious, no less demanding, and just as annoyed when we lose, like now. Even if it was the first defeat in six months: I’m one of the worst losers in the world, and I’m still annoyed about it today.”
Crystal Palace manager proud of work – Has surpassed own expectations
The Austrian outlet seemed curious and immediately asked whether he has ‘dreams that remain open’.
“Actually, I’ve surpassed everything I ever thought I could achieve. As a coach and player, you always strive for maximum success, and that’s becoming world champion and winning the Champions League,” he added.
“I don’t know if I’ll ever achieve that. But I wanted that as a player, and I didn’t even manage to become Austrian champion.”
Glasner has said on repeat occasions that he doesn’t rule out achieving the Champions League with Crystal Palace, and it’s clearly something he thinks about.
The manager has become a legend among fans. Asked about that, he said: “I don’t think about that much. If I’d been here last year, the question would have been how long I’d stay as coach because we hadn’t won in eight games. So I stopped obsessing too much about the atmosphere, because then you can’t sleep if you let everything get to you.
“Especially since not everything that’s reported is always true. That just drives you crazy. That’s why I enjoy working with the management and players at the club, and having a good time with my coaches. But of course, life is more pleasant this way. And my family will confirm that: When we lose, I’m often not the best person to talk to.”
