Crystal Palace Want ‘Best Manager in the World’ to Replace Oliver Glasner

Crystal Palace are reportedly considering a move for former Barcelona head coach Xavi Hernández as a potential replacement for Oliver Glasner, according to reports coming out of Spain.

The Selhurst Park club are believed to be preparing for Glasner’s expected departure at the end of the season and have already begun drawing up a shortlist of possible successors. Among those under consideration is Xavi, who is viewed as one of the most attractive managerial options currently available.

Palace are said to admire the Spaniard’s tactical philosophy and his proven ability to develop young players, qualities that align with the club’s long-term vision.

Xavi has been without a club since leaving Barcelona at the conclusion of the 2023/24 campaign. He is understood to have rejected several approaches since then, including an offer from Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad last September.

Palace Considering Xavi Appointment

According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, Xavi has been waiting for the right opportunity — one that offers stability and the freedom to implement his footballing philosophy.

A move to the Premier League is reportedly of strong interest to the former midfielder, who previously managed Al-Sadd in Qatar before returning to Barcelona in 2021.

During his three seasons in charge at the Camp Nou, Xavi guided the club to La Liga and Spanish Super Cup glory in the 2022/23 campaign. Despite having a year left on his contract, he was dismissed in May 2024, only weeks after club president Joan Laporta had convinced him to stay on.

Widely praised during his playing career — which included four Champions League titles and eight La Liga crowns across 17 years at Barcelona — Xavi remains a highly regarded figure in European football.

Glasner Set for Palace Exit

Palace are preparing for life after Glasner, who is expected to leave when his contract expires at the end of the season. According to GIVEMESPORT reporter Fabrizio Romano, the Austrian has already decided against signing a new deal.

Glasner arrived at Selhurst Park in February 2024 following Roy Hodgson’s departure and enjoyed a successful spell, guiding the club to FA Cup and Community Shield triumphs. Palace currently sit ninth in the Premier League table after 17 matches, six points behind fourth-placed Liverpool.

Palace Target January Reinforcements

Alongside managerial planning, Palace are also exploring attacking reinforcements in the January transfer window.

Tottenham winger Brennan Johnson is among their targets, while Manchester City’s Oscar Bobb has also emerged as a more affordable alternative should Pep Guardiola’s side sanction his exit following the arrival of Antoine Semenyo.