Pierre Sage is under growing pressure at Crystal Palace following Sunday’s 5-0 defeat by Brighton, with the manager’s position likely to come under further scrutiny during the potentially decisive fixtures against Besiktas and Newcastle.
Sage is expected to be given additional time, but Palace’s results must improve. He has collected seven points from the club’s first seven Premier League matches since replacing Oliver Glasner in the summer, while the Eagles currently have the division’s weakest defence. Palace’s decision-makers are not expected to make an immediate determination on his future, but potential alternatives have been sounded out.
Thomas Frank is among the names being considered. The former Brentford manager, who has been out of work since leaving Tottenham in February, was previously assessed by Palace as they searched for Glasner’s successor. Frank remains well regarded for his work at Brentford, although he said in June that he planned to take time away from football before returning to management.
Kieran McKenna is another possible option. McKenna left Ipswich during the summer after guiding the club back to the Premier League and has prioritised spending more time with his family. His possession-focused approach would represent a significant tactical shift for Palace, although he has experience using a back three in possession.
Former Newcastle manager Eddie Howe would be a high-profile appointment for the Eagles. Howe is open to new opportunities, but his preference is reportedly to wait for an elite role, which could make a move to Selhurst Park difficult. Sean Dyche is also under consideration, with his extensive Premier League experience and pragmatic style potentially appealing to a board focused on keeping Palace in the top flight. However, his approach would differ sharply from the expansive, counter-attacking football associated with Glasner and, to a lesser extent, Sage, and his appointment could prove unpopular with supporters.
