Andoni Iraola emerges as Crystal Palace's top Premier League managerial candidate for 2026

Crystal Palace are preparing to appoint Bournemouth's Andoni Iraola as their new manager for the 2026 season after Oliver Glasner departs.

Palace set to replace Glasner Crystal Palace have confirmed that Oliver Glasner will leave his position as head coach this month, ending his tenure at Selhurst Park. Glasner guided the club to their first-ever European final during his time in charge. His departure follows an earlier announcement in January that he would step down from the role. The club is now actively searching for a replacement to take over before the next season begins. ## Iraola leads Palace's shortlist Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has been identified as Crystal Palace's preferred choice to replace Glasner next season. Iraola, whose side currently sit sixth in the Premier League, had previously announced his intention to leave Bournemouth at the end of this campaign. Multiple sources have indicated that Palace view him as their top candidate to fill the managerial vacancy. The club is now making firm efforts to convince him to join their ranks in the top flight. ## Other managerial targets explored In addition to Iraola, Crystal Palace have considered several other candidates for the managerial role. The list includes Coventry manager Frank Lampard, Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna, former Tottenham boss Thomas Frank, ex-Nottingham Forest manager Sean Dyche, Fulham's Marco Silva, and Lens' Pierre Sage. The club has also been linked with the Athletic Bilbao position, though German coach Edin Terzic was appointed there this week. ## Iraola's potential Premier League moves Andoni Iraola has expressed openness to remaining in the Premier League following his decision to leave Bournemouth. While he had shown interest in the Newcastle vacancy, it appears Eddie Howe will continue at St James' Park unless unexpected changes occur. Stamford Bridge outfit Chelsea could also emerge as another potential destination for Iraola as they seek a new manager after parting ways with Liam Rosenior last month. ## Palace's recruitment strategy Crystal Palace are aware that their managerial situation remains fluid and are confident they can secure a high-caliber replacement if Iraola declines their offer. The club prioritizes appointing a new manager promptly to allow for involvement in the summer transfer window. The chance to lead the team in next season's Europa League, secured via the Europa Conference League final, may strengthen Palace's appeal to their preferred candidates in the coming weeks. ## Europa League impact on recruitment Crystal Palace will face Rayo Vallecano in the Europa Conference League final on 27 May, with the winner earning a spot in next season's Europa League. This potential qualification could prove decisive in attracting managerial candidates like Iraola to take charge at Selhurst Park. The club remains optimistic about finalizing their appointment before the summer transfer market opens. A swift resolution is seen as crucial for seamless squad planning.