Crystal Palace Manager Roy Hodgson Expresses Doubt Over Michael Olise’s Future at the Club
Crystal Palace manager Roy Hodgson has admitted that there is uncertainty regarding the future of winger Michael Olise. The 21-year-old has attracted significant interest from other clubs, including Manchester City, after an impressive second season with Palace. Despite signing for the club in 2021 for £8 million from Reading, Olise has become a target for top clubs due to his outstanding performances.
Olise had an exceptional season last year, contributing two goals and 11 assists in 40 appearances. His assists tally was the joint-fourth highest in the Premier League. He also won the club’s goal of the season award and became the youngest player in Premier League history to claim three assists from open play in a single match. However, a hamstring injury will keep him out of action at the start of the upcoming season.
Hodgson acknowledged that Palace faces a challenge in retaining Olise amidst interest from rival clubs. He stated, “We have a fight on our hands to make sure he stays with us.” The manager believes that Olise’s departure would leave a significant void in the squad, especially considering the recent departures of key players such as Wilfried Zaha, James McArthur, Luka Milivojevic, and Jack Butland.
During their pre-season tour in the United States, Palace played matches against Millonarios and Sevilla. However, they suffered a setback when Zaha left for Galatasaray after his contract expired. Hodgson emphasized the need for reinforcements, particularly in light of Olise’s injury and potential departure. The club has already secured the signing of Jefferson Lerma from Bournemouth on a free transfer and reached a verbal agreement with Brazilian side Flamengo to acquire 19-year-old Matheus Franca.
Hodgson expressed concern about the lack of depth in the squad, stating, “We’ve lost five senior players from last season and brought one in. There is still that hole of five senior players in the squad, two of whom were two of the real stars of the team.” He called upon chairman Steve Parish and sporting director Dougie Freedman to address the squad’s deficiencies before the end of the transfer window.
Palace’s final pre-season friendly will be against Ligue 1 side Lyon before they kick off their season with a match against Sheffield United. Hodgson hopes that the club can strengthen the squad before the season begins to ensure they can compete at a high level.
The uncertainty surrounding Olise’s future raises questions about Palace’s ability to retain their top talents. The club will need to demonstrate their ambition and competitiveness to convince players like Olise to stay. With interest from Manchester City and other top clubs, Palace faces a tough battle to hold onto their rising star.
In conclusion, Crystal Palace manager Roy Hodgson has expressed doubt about Michael Olise’s future at the club. The winger’s impressive performances have attracted interest from rival clubs, including Manchester City. Hodgson acknowledges the challenge of retaining Olise and emphasizes the need for reinforcements in the squad. Palace will need to act swiftly in the transfer market to strengthen their team and convince their top talents to stay.