- RC Lens coach attracting Palace’s attention
- Battling with PSG for Ligue Un title
- Translational formation and system
As Crystal Palace’s search for a new manager continues, a new name has been added to the ever-growing list. Whilst progress in the hunt to acquire Andoni Iraola’s signature seems to be gathering pace, the shortlist for Oliver Glasner’s replacement has continued to grow.
RC Lens manager Pierre Sage has been considered for the role, as reported by Sami Mokbel.
Lens have pushed Paris Saint Germain all the way in the title race this year, and have a brilliant team created with a blend of young talent and experienced Ligue Un veterans. Sage has led Lens fighting above their level, and with four games left they can still win the Ligue Un title.
Palace’s resulting interest is unsurprising, and if Sage was able to translate his success in France across the Channel, he may well be a great option for Steve Parish.
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Who is Pierre Sage?
Sage is a 47-year-old manager, who, before Lens, has only had one other managerial role, at Olympique Lyonnais as caretaker manager.
Before that he bounced around the French footballing world, earning coaching experience at the likes of Chambery, C.S Sedan Ardennes and Lyon-Duchere.
A spell with Lyon, initially on caretaker basis was followed by a permanent stint, where Sage qualified them for the Europa League, but was sacked the following season after a run of poor form.
In his first season with RC Lens, Sage led them to a Coupe de France Final, their first since 1998, and also secured a second placed finish, earning them Champions League football.
Sage’s managerial career, whilst short, has been a great success to date. He’s maintained a 63% win rate, which dwarfs Oliver Glasner’s 48%, albeit Glasner has managed almost five times as many games.
His style of play would also be an appeal to the Palace hierarchy. Sage favours a 3-4-2-1, which would suit the players already at the club, but also allow for consistency and avoid a potential run of poor form as the squad adjusts.
The shortlist grows
The build-up to this Summer was always going to be one packed with rumours and potential names. Sage has had a fantastic season with Lens, and could well win the league if PSG channels their focus into the Champions League.
With talks reportedly progressing with Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola, and names such as Frank Lampard, Sean Dyche and Marco Silva being touted, there is no certainty at this time, but the deadline for a decision is fast approaching.
Sage would be a fantastic acquisition, and would bring a superb style of play to South London.
