Europa League setback has driven Crystal Palace's Conference League success, claims Glasner

Ahead of the final in Leipzig, Germany, Glasner, who will depart the club after Wednesday's match, stated that a win would reinstate Palace to a tournament they "earned" a place in this season.

Palace secured their first Europa League qualification after Glasner led them to last season's FA Cup triumph, marking a historic first for the club.

However, UEFA revoked Palace's Europa League spot due to multi-club ownership regulations, forcing them to begin in the Conference League.

"Winning tomorrow would be ideal, not just for the victory itself, but because it would mean Europa League football next season," Glasner remarked.

"Then we’ll achieve next year what was rightfully ours this year.

The manager vowed to keep track of Palace's progress next season, even without being in charge.

"I’d love to see them start the Europa League with the belief that they can win it.

"That would truly delight me, as it shows a collective mindset can be built.

The Austrian coach noted his team "wholeheartedly accepted" the Conference League once the decision was final.

"For clubs used to the Champions League, it might not seem the most prestigious European tournament.

"But for a club making its European debut, it’s an incredible experience.

Glasner, who lifted the Europa League with Eintracht Frankfurt in 2022, will conclude his tenure at Palace having achieved unprecedented success.

Alongside last year's FA Cup win against Manchester City, Palace defeated reigning Premier League champions Liverpool in this season's Charity Shield opener.

Glasner advised his squad to stay calm and enjoy the occasion.

"It’s quite laid-back... We’ll have dinner. I’m not sure what the players are up to, but they’re all grown-ups. Hopefully, no one ends up in a bar.

Glasner confirmed injured players Adam Wharton and Chris Richards trained on Tuesday, but their availability will be decided on match day.

"I’ll only pick a starting XI if they’re fully fit... Naturally, they’re still in pain, but many players are after such a long season.

"Everyone wants to play, but the final call comes tomorrow.

Opponents Rayo are also on a remarkable journey and could clinch their first major trophy with a win on Wednesday.

Midfielder Oscar Trejo expressed his team’s desire to reward their fans for their unwavering support during this "magical" European campaign.

"It’s magical," said Trejo, who will leave the south Madrid club after a decade post-match.

"This was our dream. It’s been a challenging journey. We’ll give it our all tomorrow and savour every moment.