Crystal Palace vs Manchester City FA Cup Final: Oliver Glasner Says – Ready for Wembley Magic in Press Conference

Crystal Palace Boss Oliver Glasner Keeps Focus on Team Identity Ahead of Historic FA Cup Final Clash With Manchester City.

Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner and captain Marc Guehi addressed the media on Friday ahead of their much-anticipated FA Cup final against Manchester City on Saturday at Wembley. Even with such a spotlight on them, Glasner insists his squad’s preparations have remained grounded. He also appeared confident, bolstered by a fully fit squad.

Glasner admitted “It feels like more than a normal game, but our preparation was more or less the same as in the Premier League games.” Confirming some squad news, he said, “Adam [Wharton] trained the whole week and is available.” He admitted that “tough but good decisions” awaited him on finalizing the starting XI.

From Oliver Glasner, to you, our fans.

Tomorrow, we can make history.

Be loud. Be proud. Be Palace.#CPFC pic.twitter.com/PlrKAHVJZW
— Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) May 16, 2025

Sticking to Routine, Embracing the Moment

While tradition looms large over the Wembley occasion, Glasner’s trademark superstition remains intact. From his staple black Hugo Boss jumper to a now-infamous “Pastrygate” incident involving a missing Danish at the press conference buffet.

Also Read: Crystal Palace vs Manchester City Head to Head: Who Holds the Edge in Overall Record Ahead of FA Cup Final?

It seems that the Austrian’s rituals remain part of the journey. He acknowledged, “I will definitely wear a suit to arrive at Wembley. After winning a trophy, I change my outfit. I hope it’s the last game for the jumper.” Glasner admitted that Manchester City’s ever-changing offensive options pose a tactical challenge.

Man City certainly have a strong front line with Pep Guardiola having options ranging from Haaland to Doku in his midst. Glasner said, “We always have to find the right solution. We’ve scored two goals in every game we’ve played them, but we conceded four, two, and five. So we must adjust defensively as a team.”

Also Read: Where To Watch Crystal Palace vs Manchester City Today? FA Cup Final, TV Channel, Live Streaming, and More

Underdogs with Belief

Palace captain Guehi echoed the manager’s mindset, highlighting the belief and unity within the squad. “We’re all focused on ourselves… trying to make history.” He also praised the fans’ unwavering support, saying, “It’d be really nice for them to have this piece of silverware.”

Glasner concluded with a sense of measured ambition, saying, “We will go to the pitch, show who we are, and try to win. We play as Crystal Palace. That’s football.” With the club chasing its first major trophy in 120 years, Palace head into the final as underdog. However, as evident from the press conference, they will fight their best to win.

Crystal Palace

Crystal Palace vs Manchester City

FA Cup

Manchester City

Oliver Glasner

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.