Former Crystal Palace chairman Simon Jordan has sparked discussion among supporters after naming a likely candidate who could step into the dugout when Oliver Glasner eventually departs Selhurst Park. While Glasner has quickly established himself as a steadying force for the Eagles since his arrival, Jordan suggested that football clubs must always be thinking two or three steps ahead, especially when dealing with the unpredictable nature of managerial tenures.
Speaking in his usual forthright style, Jordan noted that Glasner’s impact has been impressive, but it would be naïve to believe he will remain indefinitely. According to him, 2026 could be the moment the Austrian moves on to a fresh challenge, either elsewhere in the Premier League or abroad. With that in mind, Jordan hinted at one figure who seems well-suited to carry the project forward—Kieran McKenna, the highly rated Ipswich Town boss who has earned plaudits for his tactical nous and progressive style.
Jordan argued that McKenna embodies the type of modern coach Palace would benefit from should Glasner leave. At just 40 years old, the Northern Irishman has already showcased the ability to manage pressure, inspire players, and implement an exciting attacking approach. His work at Ipswich, guiding them through the divisions with style, has not gone unnoticed, and many believe he will eventually take the reins of a bigger Premier League club.
For Palace, McKenna could represent continuity in philosophy, while also providing longevity and youthful energy. Jordan emphasized that the Eagles’ ownership must ensure that Glasner’s eventual exit doesn’t derail the stability currently being built. By lining up a forward-thinking manager in advance, Palace could avoid the setbacks of past years when managerial changes often left the squad in transition.
Of course, Jordan acknowledged that predicting the managerial landscape two years ahead is never straightforward. Circumstances shift, opportunities arise, and coaches’ reputations can fluctuate. Still, he believes that Palace should always be identifying emerging talent in the coaching world rather than reacting at the last minute.
Glasner, for now, remains focused on the present campaign, with Palace fans enjoying his ability to blend defensive solidity with attacking intent. But Jordan’s comments have fueled intrigue about the club’s future planning. Whether McKenna—or another up-and-coming coach—ultimately takes over, one thing is clear: Crystal Palace’s ambitions will demand a strong successor when Glasner’s chapter eventually closes.
Would you like me to also provide a list of other realistic managerial candidates Jordan might have in mind besides McKenna, so you have more angles for the piece?
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