Oliver Glasner Ready for Emotional Return to Crystal Palace
Oliver Glasner is gearing up for an emotional return to Crystal Palace this Sunday, a club he left just a few months ago after a historic run. Now, as Nottingham Forest's manager, he finds himself in the thick of a rivalry that has turned bitter, especially after Forest edged Palace out for a Europa League spot last season.
Sitting in Forest’s training complex, Glasner takes a moment to gather his thoughts about facing his former team. "I know I will be booed, but I don’t want to be caught up in the narratives surrounding this match," he admits. The charismatic Austrian, who juggled his football career with academic pursuits, likens his feelings to a line from Goethe’s Faust: "Two hearts are beating in my chest," he shares, expressing the fond memories of his two successful years at Palace.
During his tenure at the Eagles, Glasner achieved unprecedented success, leading them to their first major trophies, including an FA Cup victory and the Conference League title. His arrival at Forest came just weeks after that triumph, sparking tensions between the two clubs, especially with Palace’s owner Steve Parish expressing his hopes for a warm welcome for Glasner.
"I hope the fans remember the joy of our cup runs and the happiness those moments brought them," Glasner reflects. He clarifies that his move to Forest was not a rejection of Palace, but a decision he made back in October not to renew his contract. "This was a choice for Nottingham Forest, not against Crystal Palace. Life can throw unexpected opportunities your way," he adds.
Glasner maintains a good relationship with Parish and is unafraid to voice his opinions, even if that means facing backlash from fans. He recalls a moment in February when he urged supporters to "stay humble" after a rough patch where Palace secured only one win in fifteen games.
"I won’t just say what people want to hear; I’ll speak my truth. I’m 52—I don’t need to seek validation for my choices, as long as they’re right by the law," he states confidently.
In a relaxed mood, Glasner discusses his new role and the team's recent performances. After a disappointing loss to Coventry, he emphasizes the importance of unity within the squad. "These moments define a season. How we respond now is crucial. Do we point fingers, or do we stand together?" he questions.
Forest fans can take heart from Glasner’s previous experiences. At Palace, he didn’t win any of his first eight league matches but ultimately lifted the Europa League trophy with Eintracht Frankfurt after a similar slow start. When he met Forest's owner, Evangelos Marinakis, over seafood in Athens, he made it clear that his approach would require patience and time.
"If you're seeking instant results, I’m not your guy," he advised Marinakis. "But I believe we’re heading in the right direction, and the messages we’re sending to the players are becoming second nature."
Still, Glasner’s arrival at Forest raised eyebrows, as many viewed it as a lateral move. He glances at a framed photo in the City Ground, reminiscent of the celebrations he experienced in Frankfurt. "When considering a club, it’s not merely about winning titles. It’s about potential and the chance to improve a team. That’s what excites me," he concludes.
