Crystal Palace have officially dismissed manager Pierre Sage following a 3-1 defeat to Liverpool that left the Eagles at the bottom of the Premier League table. The decision, finalized on Sunday evening, came just 16 games into Sage’s tenure, which began in mid-June after Oliver Glasner’s departure. With the club facing immediate relegation pressure, the board acted swiftly to halt the slide, prioritizing stability over the remainder of Sage’s three-year contract.
Palace move fast to secure Brentford boss after bottom-of-table crisis
Thomas Frank has emerged as the frontrunner to replace Sage, with the two parties reportedly in advanced talks to finalize the appointment. Frank, who was released by Tottenham Hotspur in February, is eager for a new challenge after a prolific stint at Brentford. Palace officials are targeting a swift conclusion to negotiations, hoping Frank can take charge before Saturday’s critical away fixture against Coventry City. His familiarity with the Premier League’s physical demands and previous success in developing mid-table contenders make him the logical choice to stabilize the squad.
The transition involves complex contractual negotiations, as Palace seeks to minimize compensation payments for the remainder of Sage’s deal. A key factor in these talks is Sage’s strong interest in returning to his former club, Lens, where he is the favorite to succeed Yannick Cahuzac following Tuesday’s dismissal. Lens owner Joseph Oughourlian has maintained close contact with the Frenchman, suggesting a potential return that could allow Palace to offset some of the buyout costs. This dual-track process highlights the urgency for Palace to secure Frank while managing the financial implications of Sage’s exit.
Source: The Guardian Sport
