Crystal Palace agree deal in principle for Pierre Sage as new manager

Crystal Palace have agreed a deal in principle with Pierre Sage as their new manager, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

Sage is expected to sign a three-year deal with an option to extend for a further year. He succeeds Oliver Glasner as the Eagles’ boss.

The 47-year-old was not Palace’s first choice to replace Glasner. They pushed for Andoni Iraola, who opted to join Liverpool instead.

Sage impressed at RC Lens last term, guiding them to their first-ever Coupe de France title and a second-place finish in Ligue 1.

He was named the league’s manager of the year, with Lens finishing just six points behind champions Paris Saint-Germain.

Sage is known for his attacking philosophy and direct approach. Lens ranked second for goals scored and first for big chances created in the league last term.

Only PSG conceded fewer goals than them, while only three teams kept more clean sheets, highlighting Sage’s ability.

Sage heads into the Palace job with huge expectations following Glasner’s successes at the club.

The Austrian guided the London outfit to the FA Cup in 2024/25 before winning the Europa Conference League last season.

Sage will have to ensure that the standard does not drop under his reign.

He has a strong squad to work with, boasting players such as Ismaila Sarr, Tyrick Mitchell and Jean-Philippe Mateta.

Adam Wharton could also stay, with no club currently showing any genuine interest in signing him.

However, they will need further reinforcements to cope with domestic and European demands next season.