Risky and Dangerous: Crystal Palace Boss Reveals Gamble That would have Put FA Cup Final in Jeopardy…
Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasson has admitted that a high-stakes decision he made just weeks before the FA Cup final could have derailed the team’s historic run. In a candid interview following Palace’s hard-fought 2–1 victory in the semi-final, Glasson described the moment as “one of the riskiest choices” of his career—one that nearly cost them a place in the most prestigious fixture of English football.
“I knew it was risky. In fact, it was dangerous,” Glasson said. “But sometimes, to go further than anyone expects, you have to take that leap.”
The decision in question? Choosing to rest seven of his starting eleven players in a critical Premier League fixture against relegation-threatened Burnley—just days before the FA Cup semi-final against Manchester United. At the time, the move was heavily criticized by pundits and fans alike, who feared it would hurt the club’s league survival chances. Palace lost that match 3–0, leading to speculation about Glasson’s priorities and judgment.
But now, with Palace set to play in their first FA Cup final since 2016, the gamble appears to have paid off. The squad looked fresher and more cohesive in the semi-final clash, with key players like Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise putting in standout performances.
“I made the call because I believed in the squad depth and in the dream,” Glasson explained. “We had tired legs. I could see it in training. We weren’t going to beat United if we weren’t 100% sharp.”
Behind the scenes, it wasn’t an easy sell. Some senior players were reportedly frustrated about being benched for the Burnley match, and club executives raised concerns about the financial implications of potential relegation. Still, Glasson stood firm.
“I told the lads: trust me. Trust the plan. It’s not just about surviving—it’s about achieving something that makes history.”
Palace’s journey to the FA Cup final has indeed been historic. They’ve beaten two Premier League heavyweights and conceded just two goals in the entire tournament. The final at Wembley now awaits, where they’ll face current champions Manchester City.
The debate over whether Glasson’s move was visionary or reckless will likely continue. But for now, Crystal Palace fans are enjoying the ride.
“This is football,” said Glasson. “You can play it safe and get nowhere, or you can take a risk and maybe—just maybe—do something unforgettable.”
Whether the gamble results in silverware remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Glasson’s “risky and dangerous” choice has already etched this Palace team into club folklore.
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