Crystal Palace head coach Oliver Glasner is reportedly being considered by Manchester United's hierarchy as a candidate for the permanent managerial position. However, his recent public outbursts could jeopardise his chances, according to sources.
Glasner confirmed he will leave Palace at the end of the season, and Ineos, United's owners, are weighing him up as a potential replacement for Ruben Amorim. The Austrian's preferred 3-4-2-1 system, which ultimately cost Amorim his job, is not seen as a barrier by United decision-makers Jason Wilcox and Omar Berrada. Additionally, appointing an out-of-work manager would align with the club's cost-saving measures.
Despite these apparent alignments, Glasner's behaviour in the media has raised concerns. After Palace's 2-1 defeat to Sunderland, he launched a blistering attack on the club's hierarchy over Marc Guehi's impending sale to Manchester City. 'We feel like we're being abandoned completely,' Glasner said. 'Selling our captain one day before a game - there is no understanding for this. If your heart gets ripped out twice a year... I've just got no understanding.'
Palace chairman Steve Parish was reportedly left seething by the comments, and Glasner's position was considered on Sunday before the club decided to keep him until the end of the season. For Ineos, such public criticism is a red flag. When Amorim went against the board after a draw with Leeds, he was dismissed within 24 hours, despite his comments being less fiery than Glasner's.
Glasner has a history of tough remarks, having clashed with Wolfsburg's sporting director before leaving for Eintracht Frankfurt. While United fans may appreciate his honesty, Ineos expects disagreements to be kept in-house. As one source noted, 'Ratcliffe supposedly welcomes a back-and-forth relationship with his manager... but he also expects it to be kept in-house.'
Moving for Glasner at the end of the season would be a gamble for Ineos, and his recent interviews may be talking him out of the running. The decision now rests with United's hierarchy on whether the risk is worth taking.
