Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner has transformed himself from a fiery touchline presence into one of Europe’s most respected modern managers — and a former player who knows him best believes that change has been central to his success.
Speaking to BILD, long-serving Eintracht Frankfurt defender Timothy Chandler reflected on Glasner’s journey from emotional outbursts in Germany to calm authority in the Premier League, crediting the Austrian’s personal growth for his current achievements with Palace.
Glasner’s story is well-documented: after guiding Eintracht to Europa League glory in 2022, he left the club a year later and took charge of Crystal Palace in February 2024. Within 18 months, he had steered the Eagles to their first-ever FA Cup triumph and European qualification — feats that have made him one of the most sought-after tacticians in football.
Chandler: Glasner learned to channel emotion into leadership
Chandler, who worked under Glasner at Frankfurt, explained that the 50-year-old manager has mellowed significantly since their time together, striking a better balance between passion and composure.
“In my opinion, he made great progress here as a coach and as a person. Oli reached a point where you could talk openly with him. He did shout sometimes in meetings, but when someone, like our captain Seppl Rode, said, ‘Oli, maybe that wasn’t so good,’ he nodded and said, ‘Yes, you’re right.’” — Timothy Chandler, via BILD
Chandler admitted that Glasner once had a habit of letting his emotions boil over — but over time, he learned to express intensity in more constructive ways. That shift, he believes, is a big reason why players have continued to buy into Glasner’s methods at both club and continental level.
“Oli is someone who just had to let it all out,” Chandler added. “Sometimes even in a way that wasn’t okay. But then it was good again. He became more relaxed about some things over time. That’s also why the team followed him — why we were able to march through Europe together.”
Glasner’s evolution paying off at Crystal Palace
Since his appointment, Glasner has made a clear impact at Selhurst Park. His tactical organisation and emotional intelligence have helped elevate Palace from perennial mid-table strugglers to European contenders.
Under his guidance, Palace won their first major trophy in over a century and now find themselves competing in continental football for the first time in club history. His reputation as a player’s coach — intense but fair — has resonated strongly with the squad and supporters alike.
| Crystal Palace under Oliver Glasner (2024–25) | Record |
|---|---|
| Games Managed | 63 |
| Wins | 32 |
| FA Cup Titles | 1 |
| European Qualification | Yes (First in club history) |
source: club data – 17 October 2025
These achievements underline just how far Glasner has come since his volatile early years in management. His adaptability — both tactically and temperamentally — is now viewed as one of his greatest assets.
Analyst Verdict — by John William, FootballPlace
In my view, Timothy Chandler’s remarks highlight the human side of managerial evolution. Glasner’s shift from impulsive passion to controlled intensity mirrors that of elite managers like Klopp and Simeone, who learned that emotional balance often defines longevity.
We believe this newfound composure has been vital to Palace’s rise. Players respect authenticity, and Glasner’s willingness to listen and adapt has created a culture of trust — something few mid-table Premier League clubs ever master.
Key Insights
- Timothy Chandler says Glasner’s calmness has been key to his success.
- Former Frankfurt boss once prone to anger, now composed and approachable.
- Guided Crystal Palace to their first FA Cup and European qualification.
- Glasner’s emotional maturity helping him connect with players on a new level.
- Now regarded as one of Europe’s most progressive coaches.
What’s Next
Crystal Palace return to Premier League action this weekend as they look to build on their strong start to the season. With Europa League commitments also on the horizon, Glasner’s ability to balance intensity and calm will once again be tested.
As Chandler’s comments suggest, the Austrian’s evolution as a leader could be the key ingredient keeping Palace’s momentum alive both domestically and in Europe.
👉 Has Oliver Glasner become one of the Premier League’s most underrated managers?
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