Crystal Palace's European Ambition in Jeopardy: Glasner Confident in UEFA Appeal Battle

Crystal Palace players in European action

By BBC Sport Correspondent
Updated 2 hours ago

Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has struck an optimistic tone ahead of Sunday's Community Shield clash, declaring himself "fundamentally positive" about the club's ongoing appeal against UEFA's controversial European competition demotion.

The Ownership Conundrum

UEFA Ruling: Palace were relegated from Europa League to Conference League due to John Textor's dual ownership stakes
Key Figures: American investor Textor holds 40% of Palace and 77% of Olympique Lyonnais
Premier League Impact: Nottingham Forest (7th in 2023/24) stand to inherit Palace's Europa League spot

"This isn't just about Palace's European future," Glasner emphasized. "It's about clarifying ownership structures across modern football. Our operations remain completely independent from Lyon in every sporting decision."

Timeline of Events

Date	Milestone
July 1	UEFA announces sanctions
July 15	CAS appeal filed
August 9	Hearing commences
August 12	Verdict expected

Financial Stakes

Europa League prize money: €15m+ baseline
Conference League equivalent: €7.5m
Commercial implications estimated at £20m loss

Former UEFA compliance officer Marc Dutton told BBC Sport: "This case could set precedent for multi-club investments. UEFA's Article 5 needs clearer interpretation in globalized football ownership."

Fan Reactions

FreePalace trends on social media
Supporters plan Wembley protests during Community Shield
Lyon ultras release statement denying collusion claims

Glasner concluded: "While we respect UEFA's framework, we believe in fair process. Our focus remains on the pitch, starting with Liverpool this weekend."

Crystal Palace's European Ambition in Jeopardy: Glasner Confident in UEFA Appeal Battle