Pierre Sage has begun work with his Crystal Palace squad after the Eagles returned to Copers Cope for the opening day of pre-season.
Palace’s preparations for the 2026/27 campaign started with fitness and medical assessments on Friday.
The players also reunited following the summer break as Sage began laying the foundations for his first full season at Selhurst Park.
New signing Óscar Mingueza was among those reporting for duty. It was his first opportunity to work alongside his new team-mates following his free transfer from Celta Vigo.
Palace confirmed this week that the Spain international has signed a four-year contract until 2030.
Mingueza begins life under Sage
The defender’s early involvement gives Sage an immediate chance to assess how he could fit into the Palace back line.
Mingueza can play at centre-back or right-back, offering cover across several positions. ReadCrystalPalace has already examined why his arrival gives Sage another useful defensive option.
The official behind-the-scenes footage showed the squad completing tests before the more intensive football work begins.
Sage will not have his entire group available immediately. Several Palace players remain involved at the World Cup, meaning senior members of the squad will return at different stages.
However, the first day offered him an important opportunity to begin introducing his methods.
Palace’s opening friendly will come against Bromley on 25 July before the squad travels to Italy for the Como Cup.
