Crystal Palace turn to Dino Toppmöller as Glasner successor

Crystal Palace have reportedly identified Eintracht Frankfurt head coach Dino Toppmöller as the man to replace Oliver Glasner. According to Sky Sports, talks are already underway between the clubs.

The development comes after a period of uncertainty at Selhurst Park. Glasner's future has been the subject of speculation since the turn of the year, with Palace's form fluctuating in the Premier League.

Tactical profile: What Toppmöller would bring

Toppmöller, 43, has impressed in the Bundesliga with a high-pressing, possession-based style. His Eintracht side rank among the top five in the league for pressing intensity and passes per defensive action.

The German coach favours a fluid 4-3-3 formation that transitions quickly into a 3-4-3 in possession. This system could suit Palace's existing squad, particularly the technical midfielders and quick wide players.

Statistically, Eintracht averaged 57% possession in the 2024/25 season and created 2.1 expected goals per 90 minutes. Toppmöller's sides are also organised defensively, conceding 1.1 xGA per match.

Context: Glasner's tenure and the search

Oliver Glasner took charge of Crystal Palace in February 2024 but has struggled to replicate the success of his former clubs. The Eagles currently sit 14th in the Premier League, nine points clear of the relegation zone but without a win in their last four matches.

The board's decision to target Toppmöller suggests a desire for a younger, more progressive coach. Toppmöller previously worked as an assistant to Julian Nagelsmann at RB Leipzig and Bayern Munich before taking the Eintracht job in 2023.

His appointment would represent a shift from Glasner's pragmatic approach to a more proactive style. Palace have the third-lowest possession average in the division this season (41%), and Toppmöller would aim to address that.

Impact on Premier League and FPL implications

  • Fantasy Premier League: Palace defenders could become more valuable under Toppmöller's high line, but clean sheets may be harder to maintain. Midfielders like Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise would benefit from increased attacking freedom.
  • Transfer market: If the deal goes through, Palace may target Bundesliga-ready players in the summer window, particularly a ball-playing centre-half and a deep-lying playmaker.
  • Relegation battle: The timing of the change is crucial. With nine games remaining, a new manager bounce could lift Palace away from danger, but a poor start would increase pressure.

What happens next

Talks between Crystal Palace and Eintracht Frankfurt are believed to be at an advanced stage. Compensation will need to be agreed for Toppmöller, who is under contract until 2026.

If an agreement is reached, Toppmöller could be in the dugout for Palace's next Premier League fixture against Brighton. The club will hope for a smooth transition to secure their top-flight status and build for next season.

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