Crystal Palace’s frantic summer window has officially closed, with some key departures, late stayers, and a host of exciting new arrivals joining the ranks at Selhurst Park – leaving boss Oliver Glasner with the task of settling on his most powerful XI for the campaign.
With European competition on the schedule, heavy rotation will be necessary – but has outlined who the Austrian tactician should rely on in his premier lineup if Palace are to shine both domestically and in Europe this year.
This decision is straightforward. Other names may receive more praise for their FA Cup triumph, yet it must be remembered that Dean Henderson denied Omar Marmoush from the spot – and as an England international, there is only one candidate to start in goal.
New arrival Walter Benitez is expected to feature across the domestic cups and perhaps in lower-profile Europa Conference League games, but Henderson remains the undisputed first-choice shot-stopper.
Palace’s defence will continue to include their skipper for now, after Liverpool’s late pursuit of Marc Guehi collapsed at the very last moment – and while that’s a short-term boost for the Eagles, it may hurt financially later.
Alongside him will be his consistent partner Maxence Lacroix in the back three, the Frenchman having stood out in south London – though the final defensive berth remains contested.
Chris Richards has been dependable since his transfer to Palace, and even though Jayden Canvot’s £21 million move from Toulouse points to a long-term role in the lineup, the American is expected to keep his spot for the moment – with Canvot likely stepping in once Guehi departs.
Palace’s engine room has long been a strength but recent signings have raised the level further – key reasons behind their FA Cup victory.
Daniel Munoz has been superb since joining from Genk in January 2024, meaning he naturally takes his place on the right side of the four-man midfield.
England prospect Adam Wharton will line up centrally after his standout displays in recent months, and although Will Hughes has done well, more steel is required in the shape of Cheick Doucoure, fitness permitting.
The left midfield slot creates debate, with Croatia’s Borna Sosa arriving from Ajax this summer, but Tyrick Mitchell offers greater defensive stability – and if Munoz pushes forward, Mitchell could slot back to make it a four-man defence with Richards shuffling across.
The exit of talisman Eberechi Eze to Arsenal was a blow, but Palace have expertly replaced him with Spanish international and Villarreal winger Yeremy Pino, a major coup for the club.
Prolific forward Jean-Philippe Mateta will continue leading the line ahead of £90,000-a-week Eddie Nketiah, having netted 30 Premier League goals across the last two seasons, while lightning-quick Ismaila Sarr will threaten down the right, his sharpness and end product thriving under Glasner since his arrival.
