In a surprising turn of events, Manchester United’s potential managerial shake-up could inadvertently give rivals Liverpool a significant advantage in their pursuit of Crystal Palace’s star defender Marc Guehi. Reports suggest that United are considering replacing current manager Ruben Amorim with Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner, a move that could destabilize Palace and pave the way for Liverpool to secure Guehi’s signature.
Glasner’s Rising Stock and United’s Interest
Oliver Glasner, the 51-year-old Austrian manager, has been making waves in the Premier League with Crystal Palace. His team is enjoying a remarkable season, sitting comfortably in second place with an unbeaten start. This success was highlighted by a recent 2-1 victory over Liverpool, where goals from Ismaila Sarr and Eddie Nketiah secured Palace’s win, handing Arne Slot his first Premier League defeat of the season.
Meanwhile, Manchester United are struggling under Amorim, who has a win rate of just 27.3% and finds his team languishing in 14th place after a 3-1 loss to Brentford. The pressure is mounting, and according to TalkSPORT, Glasner is on a three-man shortlist to replace Amorim, alongside former England manager Sir Gareth Southgate and Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola.
When questioned about the speculation linking him to Old Trafford by Austrian publication Kicker, Glasner remained coy, stating, “I follow all the rumors. That’s all there is. Neutrally and completely relaxed, focus on the daily work with my players and coaches and try to enjoy it as much as possible.” His non-committal response has only fueled speculation about a potential move.
Liverpool’s Pursuit of Marc Guehi
Marc Guehi, the talented England international and Crystal Palace center-back, has been a long-term target for Liverpool. The Reds were close to signing him on transfer deadline day, but the deal fell through at the last moment. With Guehi’s contract set to expire next summer, making him a free agent, Liverpool are poised to reignite their interest. Reports indicate that Guehi remains eager to join Anfield, and there is little sign that he will sign a new deal with Palace.
Glasner’s potential departure from Crystal Palace could be the catalyst that accelerates Guehi’s exit. If United succeed in luring Glasner to Old Trafford, it could destabilize Palace’s remarkable campaign and diminish any chance of Guehi staying at Selhurst Park. The loss of such an influential manager would likely make it harder for Palace to retain their star players, giving Liverpool a clear path to secure Guehi’s services.
Liverpool’s Defensive Crisis
The timing of this potential transfer saga is critical for Liverpool, who are grappling with a defensive injury crisis. Summer signing Giovanni Leoni, who made an impressive debut, suffered a devastating anterior cruciate ligament injury during a 2-1 League Cup win over Southampton. The Italian defender is expected to be sidelined for a year, as confirmed by Arne Slot in a pre-match press conference before the Palace defeat.
Despite this setback, Slot has downplayed the likelihood of a January move for Guehi, stating, “That all depends on whether we get more injuries, yes or no, and if there’s a chance in the market – all the answers I always give. I would not prefer to go to 24/25 players.” However, with Guehi potentially available as a free agent next summer, Liverpool may opt to wait, especially if Glasner’s departure weakens Palace’s resolve.
An Unintended Assist from United?
Manchester United’s pursuit of Glasner could unintentionally hand Liverpool a significant advantage in the race for Guehi. If Glasner leaves Palace, either during the current campaign or when his contract expires next summer, it could destabilize the club and make Guehi’s departure almost inevitable. For Liverpool, this would be a golden opportunity to bolster their defense with a proven Premier League talent.
As the Premier League season unfolds, all eyes will be on Old Trafford and Selhurst Park. United’s managerial decisions could not only shape their own future but also have far-reaching consequences for their rivals. For Liverpool, this unexpected twist could be the key to securing one of their top transfer targets.