Crystal Palace have dismissed French manager Pierre Sage after just five months in charge, with the club rooted to the bottom of the Premier League. The decision comes on the heels of a 3-1 defeat to Liverpool on Sunday, Palace's fourth consecutive league loss. The Eagles have managed only two wins in their first 10 matches and possess the worst defensive record in the division, having conceded 24 goals.
A Disappointing Tenure
Sage, 47, was appointed with the challenging task of succeeding Oliver Glasner, who had led Palace to their first major trophies, the FA Cup and the UEFA Conference League, in the previous season. Glasner departed at the end of last season after a dispute over transfer policy and subsequently took over at Nottingham Forest. Sage arrived with a strong pedigree, having guided Lens to their first French Cup triumph and a second-place finish in Ligue 1. However, his time at Selhurst Park was marked by struggles, including a humiliating 5-0 defeat to rivals Brighton.
In a statement released on Thursday, the club confirmed that Sage had left his role as manager, along with coaching staff members Jamal Alioui, Damien Della Santa, and Sandy Guichard. The club expressed gratitude for their efforts and stated that an update on the appointment of a new manager would be provided in due course.
European Struggles
Palace's woes extend to European competition, where they sit 21st in the 36-team Europa League table with just one win from four matches. The club's overall performance has raised concerns among supporters, who had hoped for a smoother transition following Glasner's successful tenure.
Who's Next?
Former Brentford and Tottenham boss Thomas Frank has been tipped as the leading candidate to replace Sage. If appointed, the Dane would take charge of his third London club, bringing a wealth of Premier League experience. Palace will be hoping that a change in leadership can steer them away from the relegation zone and revive their season.
The search for a new manager is underway, and the club is expected to make an announcement soon. With the team's defensive frailties and lack of wins, the new manager will face an immediate challenge to turn around the club's fortunes.
For now, Palace fans are left to reflect on a turbulent five months under Sage, whose tenure will be remembered as a difficult chapter in the club's history.
