Crystal Palace can roll back the Glasner years by hiring 4-2-3-1 manager

Angus Sinclair of Football FanCast argues that Crystal Palace should consider hiring Kieran McKenna to replace Pierre Sage if defensive struggles continue. According to a report by TEAMtalk, chairman Steve Parish has placed the former Ipswich Town manager under consideration. Sinclair contends that McKenna's favored 4-2-3-1 tactical setup could recreate the successful heights previously achieved under former manager Oliver Glasner.

Crystal Palace have endured a difficult start to the 2026/27 season under Sage, conceding 17 goals, including a recent five-goal defeat to Brighton. The club faced major squad turnover following the departures of Glasner to Nottingham Forest and key defenders Marc Guehi and Maxence Lacroix. Sinclair believes McKenna's aggressive approach would be a substantial upgrade over Sage's current three-man defensive system.