Oliver Glasner Aims for Fairytale Finale with Palace in Conference League Showdown

The Austrian manager prepares for his final match in the Palace dugout, having transformed the club's fortunes since joining in 2024.

He guided them to their first major honour in 120 years by securing the FA Cup during his debut full season.

After starting this campaign with Community Shield success against Liverpool, Glasner now seeks to crown his tenure by delivering European silverware.

A win would also secure Palace's place in next season's Europa League, following last year's controversial exclusion due to UEFA's multi club ownership regulations.

'Dream Conclusion'

Glasner confirmed his departure in January, reportedly due to disagreements over transfer strategy, marking his third consecutive abrupt exit from a managerial position.

This pattern followed previous roles at German clubs Wolfsburg and Eintracht Frankfurt, where early triumphs gave way to strained relationships.

Despite a 12 match winless streak earlier this season, Palace officials maintained their support for Glasner.

The manager has reciprocated this faith by steering the team to their first European final.

With prior experience winning the Europa League with Frankfurt, Glasner's knockout tournament expertise could prove decisive.

Speaking ahead of the final, Glasner reflected on creating the perfect climax to his Palace journey.

"It would represent the ideal finale," he said. "Just like in any compelling story, everyone hopes for that satisfying conclusion. To crown our two year partnership with historic European success would be extraordinary."

Opponents Earn Their Place

Rayo narrowly missed out on La Liga's European qualification spots, finishing just behind city rivals Getafe. Victory would secure their second ever Europa League campaign.

The Spanish underdogs overcame Strasbourg, owned by Chelsea's parent company BlueCo, to reach this stage while Palace suffered group stage defeat against the French side.

"All semi finalists have demonstrated their quality," noted Glasner. "Rayo pose significant threats with their rapid transitions, dangerous wingers and defensive solidity."