In the wake of Marco Rose's dismissal, RB Leipzig is actively pursuing Oliver Glasner, the current manager of Crystal Palace, as their next head coach. The Bundesliga club parted ways with Rose following a disappointing season that culminated in a cup exit against VfB Stuttgart. With Zsolt Löw stepping in as interim manager, Leipzig is on the lookout for a long-term solution, and Glasner has emerged as a leading candidate for the position.
According to reports from various sources, including Sky Sports and Salzburger Nachrichten, Leipzig has already made contact with Glasner's camp regarding the managerial vacancy. The Austrian manager, who has been at the helm of Crystal Palace since February 2024, has a contract that runs until 2026. He has recently led the Eagles to the FA Cup semifinals, showcasing his ability to guide the team through challenging times.
However, sources close to Glasner indicate that he is hesitant to leave English football for Leipzig. "He can’t imagine leaving English football for Leipzig as it stands," the Austrian newspaper reported, highlighting Glasner's satisfaction with his current role. The manager reportedly enjoys a "great deal of freedom" at Crystal Palace, a factor that weighs heavily in his decision-making process. Glasner is concerned about the level of control he would have at Leipzig, especially given the presence of Jürgen Klopp, who serves as the Global Sports Director for Red Bull.
Klopp's influence in Leipzig's decision-making process is significant, and Glasner is said to be considering the possibility of a move only if Leipzig can assure him of greater autonomy. The report notes that if Glasner were to accept an offer, the club would need to negotiate a compensation package with Crystal Palace, which would likely be substantial given his current contract.
RB Leipzig is currently in a sporting crisis, having exited the DFB-Pokal in a disappointing fashion. Mintzlaff, the club's chairman, stated that Löw is not expected to take the head coach role permanently, saying, "I see it nearly at 100 percent that he will not be our head coach next season." This statement underscores the urgency for Leipzig to find a suitable long-term replacement.
Glasner's impressive track record includes leading Eintracht Frankfurt to a Europa League triumph in 2022, which has made him a sought-after figure in European football. His previous association with Red Bull Salzburg, where he served as a co-trainer, adds another layer to his candidacy for the Leipzig job. However, he has also been linked with other clubs, including Bayern Munich, which he turned down at the end of last season.
As discussions about a potential move heat up, Crystal Palace is not willing to let Glasner go without a fight. The club's chairman, Steve Parish, has already initiated talks to extend Glasner's contract in order to fend off interest from other teams. Glasner's loyalty to Palace is evident, as he has expressed contentment with his situation in London, making it clear that he values the freedom and support he receives from the club.
The situation remains fluid as Leipzig continues its search for a permanent manager, and Glasner's future hangs in the balance. While he is a top target for the Bundesliga side, his commitment to Crystal Palace and the ongoing negotiations for a contract extension could ultimately shape his decision.
In summary, RB Leipzig's pursuit of Oliver Glasner as their next head coach reflects the club's desire to stabilize its coaching situation amid a tumultuous season. With Glasner's impressive credentials and a contract that binds him to Crystal Palace until 2026, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether he will make the move back to Germany or continue his journey in the Premier League.
