Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner highlighted the crucial role of central midfielders Adam Wharton and Daichi Kamada in their Conference League final victory over Rayo Vallecano. Glasner departs London with a trophy after a successful tenure.
Following the match, Glasner acknowledged that Palace was the superior team, with Jean-Philippe Mateta’s opening goal significantly shifting the momentum. He emphasized the importance of his midfield duo in breaking down Rayo’s defense, noting Wharton’s assist for the opener.
“Often in a final, you don’t get into it from the first minute. The first half went as we expected. We had a great chance at the end, from Adam’s cross, and Tyrick Mitchell had the header. In the second half, we kept pushing.”
“I don’t usually like to praise individuals excessively, but I must say that Adam and Daichi played exceptionally well. We knew they would press with one less midfielder to maintain an extra player at the back. The key was how quickly they could find and exploit space. We were outstanding during the period when we created clear chances; Yeremy had an amazing free-kick.”
“We limited Rayo’s chances” – Glasner
For the majority of the game, Rayo was kept at bay, unable to penetrate the Premier League side’s defense.
“We did a really good job keeping the ball in their half. There was a deflected second ball. A free-kick and a header, but we limited their chances. It was only at the final whistle that I realized it was my last game for Palace. I took a deep breath with the final whistle.”
Glasner: Once players understood me, we achieved something special
The Conference League title adds to Glasner’s collection, which already includes the FA Cup and the Community Shield. When reminded of his pre-match comment about not being a ‘magician,’ he responded:
“Honestly, I have merely guided this group and the staff, and supported them. It is my 100% conviction that even if I were the best magician, it wouldn’t work without the players. They have to listen and trust me and the staff. We work hard, and I believe every player will tell you that I am very demanding. If things don’t go as I think they should, or if they drop their standards, if they are one or two percent below. Sometimes they are a bit upset with me, and that’s fine, but they know I want the best for the team.”
“As soon as we understood this, we achieved something special. It is my job to get everyone aligned in our attacking and defending approach. We need talented footballers, but also strong characters. It’s a year late, but the club has received what they deserved: a spot in the Europa League.”
Glasner thanks fans and avoids discussing future
As Glasner’s contract concludes, he expressed gratitude to the Palace fans and noted that he hadn’t considered leaving earlier in the season.
“When we were struggling, I believe I told you that I see myself as a servant to the players and the club. Someone who provides direction. My job is with the players. Today, in the meeting at the hotel, we received many messages from the fans, saying things like ‘thank you for the best day of my life.’ It was another incredible day for me and my family, to be back here in Leipzig too. So I have to thank them as well.”
Similar to Rayo’s manager, questions remain about his next career move.
“I have not made any arrangements with any club because I believe I would feel conflicted and unable to give 100%. Therefore, I haven’t been thinking about any other clubs in the last few months.”
