Crystal Palace and Millwall are gearing up for the 2025-26 season with a pre-season friendly this Saturday. This match, taking place behind closed doors, will be streamed live on both clubs' official websites, allowing supporters to catch the action.
Eagles Soar After FA Cup Win, Face European Setback
Crystal Palace are still riding high after their historic FA Cup victory in May, a 1-0 triumph over Manchester City at Wembley that secured their first major domestic trophy in 120 years. However, their joy was short-lived as UEFA demoted them from the Europa League to the Conference League. This decision stems from breaches of multi-club ownership rules, occurring shortly after Lyon, co-owned by outgoing Palace investor John Textor, successfully appealed their relegation from Ligue 1.
Palace are expected to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, leaving their participation in European competitions uncertain as the new season approaches. This uncertainty has complicated their pre-season planning and potentially jeopardises their chances of retaining key players like Eberechi Eze and captain Marc Guehi, who are attracting interest from other Premier League giants.
Glasner Aims for Productive Pre-Season
Despite the off-field challenges, manager Oliver Glasner is focused on a productive pre-season. He hopes to build on Palace's 12th-place finish in the Premier League last season. The Eagles, who commenced pre-season training this week, will follow up their friendly against Millwall with further matches as they fine-tune their squad.
Stay tuned for team news, possible lineups, and a match prediction as Crystal Palace and Millwall prepare for the upcoming season!