Glasner’s Rotation Ruffles Feathers Ahead of Dynamo Kyiv Trip
Oliver Glasner is set to ring the changes for Crystal Palace’s historic UEFA Conference League clash against Dynamo Kyiv tonight, a move that is causing a stir among the travelling support. Despite the team’s impressive 17-match unbeaten run across all competitions, the manager’s intention to rotate a key attacker has led to pockets of frustration as the Eagles make their major European group stage debut.
While Glasner, a European specialist who won the Europa League in 2022, has a near fully-fit squad, his plan involves managing the minutes of certain players to cope with the rigorous schedule of Premier League and European football. One player confirmed to have his time monitored is striker Eddie Nketiah, who recently scored the last-minute winner against Liverpool but missed nearly the whole pre-season. Glasner stated he “won’t risk an injury” with the player.
The Austrian boss is expected to make adjustments to the starting XI that defeated Liverpool, with predicted lineups suggesting a mix of continuity and rotation in the wing-back and advanced midfield roles. Players like Jefferson Lerma and Borna Sosa have been rotated previously, highlighting the manager’s commitment to using his full squad. Glasner has publicly stated that he will “always play the best available team” but will also rest players who need it.
For the fans, the potential benching of any in-form player for their inaugural European group stage match—played at the neutral venue of the Lublin Arena in Poland—is a moment of anxiety. They want to see the strongest possible side build on the recent momentum.
Glasner, however, remains unperturbed by the potential reaction, reiterating his trust in his system and depth. “We have many players who deserve to start,” he noted. The manager’s priority is a sustained campaign across all fronts, meaning short-term rotation will continue, regardless of fan sentiment. The travelling 2,500 Palace fans will be hoping the chosen eleven can secure a memorable victory to justify the coach’s selections.
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