Crystal Palace are edging closer to the start of a new chapter, with Pierre Sage expected to take charge at Selhurst Park following the departure of Oliver Glasner.
The Eagles moved swiftly in their search for a replacement and quickly identified Sage as the leading candidate. The Frenchman is now set to become Palace’s next manager after impressing with his work in Ligue 1.
Sage’s stock has risen significantly over the past 12 months. The 46-year-old enjoyed a memorable campaign with Lens, guiding the club to Coupe de France success while also securing a second-place finish in the French top flight. Those achievements attracted attention from across Europe and ultimately convinced Palace that he is the right man to continue the club’s recent progress.
According to Sky Sports, Sage has already agreed a deal in principle and is expected to sign a three-year contract, with the club holding the option to extend the agreement by a further 12 months.
Whoever followed Glasner faced a difficult task. The Austrian leaves behind a remarkable legacy after overseeing the most successful period in Crystal Palace’s history. During his time in charge, Palace lifted the FA Cup, Community Shield and UEFA Conference League, transforming the club’s status both domestically and on the European stage.
As supporters await Sage’s official unveiling, attention is already turning towards the summer transfer window and the players who could arrive under the new manager’s leadership.
Every coach brings different ideas, and Sage is no exception. Recruitment is expected to be a major focus over the coming months as Palace seek to strengthen their squad and maintain their momentum.
One name already emerging as a potential target is a familiar one to Palace supporters.
According to SportsBoom, Sage is keen on bringing Odsonne Edouard back to Selhurst Park just one year after the striker left south London on a permanent move to Lens.
The French forward enjoyed a productive campaign under Sage last season, scoring 14 goals in all competitions and rediscovering much of the form that once made him one of the most highly-rated attackers in French football.
The report claims Sage remains a huge admirer of Edouard and believes the striker could make a valuable contribution to Palace’s attacking unit.
There is also said to be interest from the player’s side. SportsBoom report that Edouard would be open to returning to Crystal Palace despite departing the club only last summer.
The potential move has certainly raised eyebrows.
Edouard’s previous spell at Palace produced mixed results. There were moments of genuine quality and important goals, but consistency often proved elusive. Following a loan spell at Leicester City, many supporters expected his Palace story to be over.
However, his resurgence at Lens under Sage has reopened the conversation.
Whether Palace decide to pursue a deal remains to be seen, but the possibility of a reunion is already gathering attention as Pierre Sage prepares to begin life in the Crystal Palace dugout.
