Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner emphasized the pivotal role of central midfielders Adam Wharton and Daichi Kamada in their Conference League final triumph over Rayo Vallecano. This victory marks a successful conclusion to Glasner’s tenure in London.
Following Rayo Vallecano counterpart Inigo Perez, who conceded that Palace were the superior team and that Jean-Philippe Mateta’s opening goal was a significant turning point, Glasner attributed his team’s ability to trouble Rayo to their midfield. Wharton provided the assist for the opening goal.
“Often in a final, you don’t get into it from the first minute; the first half went as we anticipated. We had a significant opportunity at the end from Adam’s [Wharton] cross, resulting in Tyrick Mitchell’s header. In the second half, we maintained our momentum.”
“While I typically avoid excessive individual praise, I must acknowledge that Adam and Daichi [Kamada] performed exceptionally well. We were aware of their strategy to press with one fewer midfielder, maintaining an extra defender. The key was their ability to quickly find and exploit space. We were outstanding during the period when we created clear chances, and Yeremy’s free-kick was amazing.”
“We Limited Rayo’s Opportunities” – Glasner
For the majority of the match, Rayo was kept at bay, unable to penetrate the Premier League side’s defense.
“We did an excellent job of keeping the ball in their half. There was a deflected second ball, a free-kick, and a header, but overall, we restricted their chances. It was only at the final whistle that I fully realized it was my last game for Palace. I took a deep breath as the whistle blew.”
Glasner: Once Players Understood Me, We Achieved Something Special
The Conference League title is added to Glasner’s impressive trophy haul, which already includes the FA Cup and the Community Shield. When asked about his earlier comment that he was “no magician,” he responded:
“In reality, I have merely guided this group and the staff, and provided support. It is my firm belief that even the best magician would fail without the players. They must listen, trust me, and the staff. We work diligently, and I believe every player would attest to my demanding nature. If things are not progressing as I believe they should, or if their standard drops, even by one or two percent, they sometimes become a bit displeased with me, and that’s acceptable, as they know I prioritize the team’s best interests.”
“As soon as we achieved this mutual understanding, we created something extraordinary. My role is to ensure everyone is aligned in our attacking and defensive strategies. We require not only talented footballers but also strong characters. It is a year later than deserved that the club has achieved what it merited: a place in the Europa League.”
Glasner Thanks Fans and Defers Future Discussions
As Glasner departs at the conclusion of his contract, he expressed gratitude to the Palace fans and noted that he hadn’t contemplated leaving earlier in the season.
“During our struggles, I recall stating that I see myself as a servant to the players and the club, someone who provides direction. My focus is on the players. Today, during our team meeting at the hotel, we received numerous messages from the fans expressing sentiments like, ‘thank you for the best day of my life.’ It was another incredible day for me and my family, to be back here in Leipzig as well. Therefore, I must also thank them.”
Similar to Perez, questions linger regarding his next career move.
“I have not made any arrangements with any club because I believe I would feel conflicted and unable to give 100%. Consequently, I have not considered any other clubs in recent months.”
