Oliver Glasner Reflects on His Career at Crystal Palace

Despite Crystal Palace's recent FA Cup exit to non-league Macclesfield, Oliver Glasner's influence as manager over the past two years is undeniable. The 51-year-old guided Palace to their first major trophy and qualification for European competition by winning the FA Cup last season. On Friday, Glasner announced his decision to leave the club at the end of the current season.

Earlier this month, Glasner sat down with Kelly Somers for an interview where he discussed his upbringing, the life-threatening injury that forced him to retire from playing, and his youthful experiences. The full interview is available on BBC iPlayer and will air on BBC One on Saturday, January 17, at 23:55 GMT (01:10 on Sunday in Scotland).

Kelly Somers: Oliver, it’s great to see you in the players' lounge at Crystal Palace. Let’s talk about your journey in football. Where did your passion for the sport begin?

Oliver Glasner: I can’t recall exactly, but my mother says it started with me kicking any ball I could find. I grew up in a small village in Austria, where I played football with my friends.

Kelly: What was the name of your first team?

Oliver: My first team was SV Riedau, which is a village of about 2,000 residents. I still live there; we built our house 25 years ago. My childhood friends remain my best friends. Whenever I return home, we enjoy dinner or play tennis or golf together. Riedau will always be my home base, even as I travel the world.

Kelly: Do you remember the teammates you played with? Are they still close friends?

Oliver: Yes, I started with a small group and played first-team football for 15 years, including non-league football in Austria. After graduating at 18, I received an offer from SV Ried, where I played for 19 years. They were in the second league at the time, and I decided to pursue a football career, fully committing to it.

Kelly: You had a successful career as a defender, but it was cut short unexpectedly. Can you share what led to your retirement?

Oliver: I had a long and enjoyable career, but at nearly 37, I faced a significant health crisis. I suffered a head injury due to an aneurysm, which required surgery. Fortunately, I recovered, but I had to retire. My wife often reminds me that I would have never chosen to stop playing because I love the game and being part of a team, which may have influenced my decision to become a manager.

Kelly: That must have been a life-altering experience. How did it impact your perspective on life and your approach to football?

Oliver: I don’t believe it changed my attitude significantly. I’ve always tried to avoid taking things for granted. The experience confirmed my belief that we should cherish every moment. My family had to face the hardest part, especially my wife, who had to approve the emergency surgery while I was oblivious to the situation.

Looking back, I realize that many of our daily complaints are trivial. This perspective helps me maintain a positive mindset and enjoy life.

Kelly: Have there been any pivotal moments in your career?

Oliver: I believe our character is shaped by our upbringing. My mother was a single parent who worked hard for us despite financial struggles. I had everything I needed for a happy childhood, which keeps me grounded and humble. I remind my players to appreciate that we are living our childhood dreams.

Growing up with limited access to television and no internet, I cherished the rare moments I could watch football. I remember watching European games in the '80s and dreaming of being part of that world. Now that I am, I often reflect on how fortunate I am, which motivates me to remain positive and focused.

Kelly: You’ve had a remarkable managerial career as well. What would you say has been the highlight so far?

Oliver: For me, the highlight is the entire journey. It’s about the people I’ve met and the experiences I’ve shared along the way.

Oliver Glasner Reflects on His Career at Crystal Palace

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