Crystal Palace Set for Conference League Playoff After CAS Dismisses Appeal

Crystal Palace's appeal against UEFA's decision to demote them to the Conference League has been dismissed. Learn more about their upcoming playoff match against Fredrikstad.

Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has confirmed that Eberechi Eze and Marc Guehi will start in the team's UEFA Conference League playoff first leg against Fredrikstad FK. Despite being heavily linked to moves away from Selhurst Park, with Tottenham Hotspur reportedly edging closer to agreeing a fee for Eze and Liverpool leading the chase for Guehi, Glasner insists both players are committed to the team.

Transfer Speculation

• Eberechi Eze: Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly close to agreeing a fee for the 27-year-old, who has been instrumental in Palace's success. Arsenal has currently joined the race for his signature.
• Marc Guehi: Liverpool are interested in signing the England international, but Palace are holding out for a £40 million valuation, given his contract expires next year.

Glasner emphasizes that it's the duty of players under contract to give their all for the club. He praised Eze and Guehi for their professionalism and commitment, stating they will continue to play crucial roles as long as they're part of the team. Glasner added that the speculation surrounding their futures won't affect their selection for the match against Fredrikstad.

Eberechi Eze's recent performances have solidified his position as a key player for Crystal Palace. He played a crucial role in Palace's 0-0 draw against Chelsea in their opening Premier League game, showcasing his skills alongside his teammates. Manager Oliver Glasner seems confident in Eze's abilities, indicating he will likely feature prominently in upcoming matches, including the one against Fredrikstad.

Eze's winning goal against Manchester City in the FA Cup final marked a historic moment for Crystal Palace, securing their first major trophy in 164 years. This victory not only earned the team a spot in the Conference League but also cemented Eze's popularity among fans and teammates alike. His impressive form, including six goals in five appearances leading up to the final, was pivotal in Palace's success.

Key Highlights of Eze's Performance:

• FA Cup Winner: Eze scored the decisive goal in the 16th minute, volleying home from Daniel Munoz's cross
• Impressive Form: Six goals in five appearances before the FA Cup final
• Popular Figure: Eze remains well-liked in the dressing room and among fans for his contributions to the team.

With Glasner's confidence in him, Eze is poised to continue making significant contributions to Crystal Palace's success in the upcoming matches.

“The player gives 100% because he is under contract. We don't have to say thank you every day, he is getting a few pounds every week,” Glasner told reporters on Wednesday.

European football at Selhurst Park.

See you tomorrow night ✊

— Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) August 20, 2025

“Many of you were surprised he and Marc (Guehi) started against Chelsea, you may be surprised they start tomorrow, but they are committed to the team.

“They will play a crucial part for 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% to Crystal Palace.”

Goalkeeper Dean Henderson has expressed his admiration for Eberechi Eze and Marc Guehi, praising their commitment and professionalism despite ongoing transfer speculation. “Great lads. They are still committed and professional. It showed in the Chelsea game. Both of them were phenomenal in that game,” Henderson said, highlighting their impressive performance in the 0-0 draw against Chelsea.

Henderson's Perspective:

Henderson emphasized that Eze and Guehi's dedication to the team remains unwavering, stating, “They will stay committed throughout and be there to help the team. They are part of us at the minute and we will keep enjoying it.” His comments suggest that the team's dynamics are strong, and the players are focused on the upcoming challenges, including the Conference League playoff against Fredrikstad.

Crystal Palace's inaugural European campaign has taken an unexpected turn after UEFA demoted them to the Conference League due to a breach of multi-club ownership rules. The decision, upheld by the Court of Arbitration for Sport, means Nottingham Forest will take Palace's spot in the Europa League. Palace qualified for the Europa League by winning the FA Cup, but UEFA's rules prohibit clubs with common ownership from competing in the same competition.

The Ruling's Impact:

Europa League Spot: Nottingham Forest, who finished seventh in the Premier League last season, will replace Palace in the Europa League.

Conference League Participation: Palace will participate in the Conference League's qualifying playoff round, facing Fredrikstad or FC Midtjylland in a two-legged qualifier.

Glasner's Response:

Manager Oliver Glasner acknowledges that Palace deserved to be in the Europa League but expresses determination to make the most of their Conference League participation. Despite the setback, Glasner is focused on preparing the team for their European campaign, emphasizing the importance of this opportunity for the players and the club.

“It is the first time Euro football will be played at Selhurst (Park), this is our reward for winning the FA Cup and we will enjoy it,” he said. “Many fans did not expect us to play European football, so this is our approach.”

Upcoming Match

The first leg of the Conference League playoff is set to take place on August 21, 2025, at 20:00 WAT at Selhurst Park in London, where Crystal Palace will host Fredrikstad FK