Glasner Confirms Guessand Injury, Updates on Mateta Ahead of Fiorentina Clash
Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has provided key updates on his squad ahead of their crucial Conference League quarter-final second leg against Fiorentina. The Eagles hold a commanding 3-0 lead from the first leg, but Glasner insists his team will approach the match with a winning mentality rather than focusing on defense.
Injury Updates and Squad Depth
Evann Guessand will miss the upcoming match due to a knee injury, with Glasner estimating he'll be sidelined for several weeks. The manager acknowledged Guessand's contributions this season, noting his goals and assists, but expressed confidence in the squad's ability to cope with his absence. He pointed to recent performances against Newcastle and Fiorentina as evidence of their improved depth, specifically mentioning Yeremy Pino's positive impact when he replaced Guessand in the first leg.
Jean-Philippe Mateta is nearing full fitness after scoring twice against Newcastle last weekend. Glasner revealed the striker isn't quite at 100 percent yet but is getting closer with each training session. The manager praised Mateta's work ethic and positive influence in the dressing room, describing him as a well-liked figure who brings energy and humor to the team environment.
Key points about Palace's current situation:
- Guessand's injury creates a short-term gap in the attacking options
- Pino has already shown he can step up when needed
- Mateta's return to form comes at an important time in the season
- The squad appears better equipped to handle absences than earlier in the campaign
Tactical Approach and Expectations
Despite their substantial advantage from the first leg, Glasner emphasized that Palace will not adopt a defensive mindset in Florence. He stated clearly that the team is traveling to win the match, not simply to protect their lead. This aggressive approach reflects his philosophy and the confidence gained from their first-leg performance.
Glasner shared his observations about the differences between English and Italian football styles. He noted that Serie A teams often employ compact defensive blocks and quick transitions forward, while Premier League matches tend to feature more end-to-end action and aggressive pressing. The manager specifically mentioned that Italian teams frequently use man-to-man pressing high up the pitch, which can create vulnerabilities at the back if executed improperly.
The Challenge Ahead in Florence
The Palace manager expects a passionate atmosphere at the Artemio Franchi Stadium, acknowledging the emotional support Fiorentina fans typically provide. However, he also highlighted the presence of approximately 1,400 traveling Palace supporters who will be vocal in their backing of the team. Glasner anticipates an exciting European night with both sets of fans creating a memorable atmosphere.
Regarding Fiorentina's approach, Glasner doesn't expect significant tactical changes from the Italian side. He explained that teams generally can't overhaul their playing style in just three days between matches. The manager expressed some surprise at Palace's ability to score three goals in the first leg, noting that Fiorentina had been unbeaten in six Serie A games and typically don't concede many chances in domestic competition.
Key Takeaways
- Guessand's injury is a setback but Palace have shown they can adapt without him
- Mateta's improving fitness provides a timely boost to the attacking options
- Glasner insists on maintaining an attacking approach despite the aggregate lead
- The manager recognizes stylistic differences between English and Italian football
- Palace face a challenging atmosphere but have strong traveling support
Looking ahead to the match, Glasner used a proverb to emphasize the need for consistent performance, suggesting that one good result doesn't guarantee success. He stressed the importance of proving their first-leg victory wasn't a fluke by delivering another strong performance in Italy. With squad updates addressed and tactical approach clarified, Palace appear focused on securing their place in the Conference League semi-finals.
— Editorial Team
