Oliver Glasner is reportedly not prioritising a return to Germany this summer despite strong admiration from Bayer 04 Leverkusen.
According to reports from Germany, the current Crystal Palace manager remains one of the leading names on Bayer Leverkusen’s shortlist as the Bundesliga side plans for a new era on the bench.
However, SportBILD claim Glasner’s current preference is to remain in English football rather than return to the Bundesliga immediately after leaving Selhurst Park.
Bayer Leverkusen see Oliver Glasner as ideal candidate
Leverkusen executives Fernando Carro and Simon Rolfes are already working on identifying managerial options for next season.
Girona coach Míchel is reportedly among the candidates being considered after previously attracting interest from Leverkusen.
Yet Glasner is described in Germany as the club’s “top candidate” because of his proven record in both the Bundesliga and European competition.
That reputation has only strengthened during his time at Crystal Palace.
Having followed Palace’s rise under Glasner closely this season, the Austrian has significantly elevated his standing across Europe again through his ability to combine tactical structure with aggressive attacking transitions. The club’s FA Cup success last season and run to the Europa Conference League final this year have further enhanced his profile.
Those achievements follow earlier success with Eintracht Frankfurt, where he won the Europa League in 2022, and his impressive spell at VfL Wolfsburg, which included Champions League qualification.
Crystal Palace departure increasing interest across Europe
Reports in Germany suggest Leverkusen currently believe pursuing Glasner aggressively may not be worthwhile because the manager has already indicated a preference to stay in England.
That stance could quickly place several Premier League clubs on alert.
The managerial market in England is expected to become increasingly active during the summer, particularly with multiple clubs assessing long-term projects and potential tactical changes. Glasner’s success adapting to Premier League football has naturally strengthened his attractiveness to clubs seeking proven leadership with European experience.
| Oliver Glasner achievements | Managerial record |
|---|---|
| Europa League titles | 1 |
| FA Cup titles | 1 |
| European finals reached | 2 |
| Champions League qualification | With Wolfsburg |
source: club and UEFA records – 13 May 2026
However, it remains unclear which English sides may eventually move for him. Much could depend on managerial changes elsewhere once the domestic season officially concludes.
What’s next?
Crystal Palace are preparing for Glasner’s departure at the end of June, while Bayer Leverkusen continue refining their shortlist before making a final decision on their next manager.
Leverkusen’s admiration for Glasner is unlikely to disappear quickly, but current indications suggest the Austrian will prioritise opportunities in England if formal offers emerge during the summer.
As a result, the next few weeks may reveal whether Premier League clubs are prepared to move decisively for one of Europe’s most highly regarded coaches.
Would Oliver Glasner be the ideal appointment for another Premier League club, or should he eventually return to Germany to continue his rise?
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