Did Oliver Glasner Just Call Out Marc Guehi After Chelsea's Draw?

In the aftermath of Crystal Palace's goalless draw against Chelsea, manager Oliver Glasner has addressed speculation surrounding a perceived snub from defender Marc Guehi. Glasner clarified that Guehi’s reaction was not indicative of any conflict but rather a reflection of his disappointment over the match result. This clarification comes amid ongoing discussions about Guehi's potential transfer to Liverpool, adding a layer of intrigue to the situation.

Last updated: 12 September 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Oliver Glasner dismissed claims of a snub by Marc Guehi following the Chelsea match.
• Guehi’s reaction was attributed to frustration over the draw, not a personal slight.
• Liverpool is reportedly interested in signing Guehi before the transfer window closes.
• Glasner confirmed that both Guehi and Eberechi Eze will start in the upcoming Conference League match.
• The manager emphasised the commitment of his players despite transfer speculations.

The Incident Explained

During the post-match walk-off at Stamford Bridge, Glasner attempted to engage with Guehi, who merely glanced back before proceeding to the dressing room. This moment was caught by cameras and quickly sparked debate in the media about the nature of their relationship. Some interpreted Guehi's behaviour as a sign of discontent or disrespect towards his manager, potentially fuelling ongoing transfer speculation.

Glasner’s Response

Addressing the media, Glasner firmly refuted these claims, stating, “I’ve seen so much nonsense written about this.” He elaborated that Guehi was simply upset about the match result, which he considered a positive sign of the player’s ambition and commitment to the team. “It’s the best sign that he could show of how ambitious we are,” Glasner added, highlighting the competitive spirit he wishes to cultivate within the squad.

Guehi’s Future at Crystal Palace

The backdrop to this incident is the ongoing interest from Liverpool in Guehi, a 25-year-old defender who has become a key player for Crystal Palace. Reports suggest that Liverpool are keen to bolster their defensive options before the end of the summer transfer window. This interest has inevitably led to speculation about Guehi’s future, especially in light of the incident with Glasner.

Commitment to the Team

Despite the transfer talk, Glasner reaffirmed that Guehi and Eze are fully committed to their roles at Crystal Palace. He stated, “The player gives 100 per cent because he is under contract. We don’t have to say thank you every day; he is getting a few pounds every week.” This statement underscores the professional expectation that players maintain their performance levels, regardless of external pressures.

Looking Ahead: The Conference League Play-Off

Glasner confirmed that both Guehi and Eze would start in the Conference League play-off against Fredrikstad, further indicating that the club is focusing on immediate objectives rather than the ongoing transfer speculation. He remarked, “They will play a crucial part as long as they are here, they are committed to the team. If they leave, they want to leave as the guys who gave 100 per cent to Crystal Palace.”

Conclusion

The exchange between Glasner and Guehi, while momentarily attracting attention, appears to be a misinterpretation of a frustrated player rather than a sign of deeper issues within the club. As the summer transfer window approaches its conclusion, the focus for Crystal Palace will be on ensuring their players remain committed to the team's goals while navigating the complexities of potential transfers. With significant fixtures on the horizon, including the Conference League play-off, both players and management will be keen to demonstrate their dedication to the club.

FAQs

What did Oliver Glasner say about Marc Guehi's reaction?

Oliver Glasner clarified that Marc Guehi's brief glance at him after the Chelsea match was due to the defender's disappointment with the draw, not a personal slight.

Is Marc Guehi leaving Crystal Palace?

While there is speculation about Liverpool's interest in Guehi, Oliver Glasner has stated that Guehi is committed to Crystal Palace and will play in the upcoming matches.

What impact does the transfer speculation have on the team?

Oliver Glasner emphasised that despite transfer talks, players like Guehi and Eze remain committed to their roles and will continue to perform to the best of their abilities for Crystal Palace.

When is Crystal Palace's next match?

Crystal Palace's next match is a Conference League play-off against Fredrikstad, where both Guehi and Eze are expected to start.

How is the team preparing for the Conference League?

The team is focused on maintaining high performance levels and ensuring that all players, including those under transfer speculation, are fully committed to the upcoming fixtures.