Oliver Glasner’s Response to Mateta’s Injury
Oliver Glasner had every reason to feel furious, even enraged, after witnessing one of his players suffer a severe injury that sent him to the hospital due to a shocking, high-impact challenge. However, Glasner’s composed response showcased his character and professionalism. Following Crystal Palace’s 3-1 victory over Millwall, which secured a spot in the FA Cup quarter-finals, Glasner expressed his primary concern for Jean-Philippe Mateta, who was “conscious” after sustaining a serious ear injury from a collision with goalkeeper Liam Roberts’ boot. Thankfully, the 27-year-old later took to social media to reassure fans, stating he was “doing well” and promised to return to action “very soon.”
Late on Saturday, Palace confirmed that Mateta had been discharged from the hospital, having received “specialist treatment and 25 stitches” for a significant laceration to his left ear. Glasner made it clear in his post-match remarks that his priority was Mateta’s health rather than the game’s result, reflecting sentiments shared by chairman Steve Parish. During an understandably emotional interview with the BBC at half-time, Parish remarked that Roberts “needs to have a long, hard look at himself,” emphasizing that he had “endangered a fellow professional, maybe even with his life.”
Glasner, who spoke later with the benefit of more information, maintained a somber yet measured tone, asserting that “sportsmen don’t want to injure players.” He emphasized that the consequences could have been dire: “Just imagine if he hits his face straight on, with his power and his studs; it could have been the end of JP’s career.” While he believed Roberts did not intend to cause harm, Glasner insisted that such reckless actions must be reconsidered: “The risk of a very, very serious injury is just too high, so I think it was the wrong decision the keeper took in this moment.”
Glasner’s calm demeanor was particularly commendable, especially considering his own history with head injuries. In 2011, he suffered a concussion and a cut above the eye after a clash of heads, which resulted in a subdural hematoma while playing for SV Ried. Doctors had informed him that he had a 50/50 chance of surviving the operation. Upon joining Palace last year, he reflected on the importance of health, stating, “Sometimes we forget that health is our biggest value because when you are healthy, you don’t think about it.”
This sense of perspective was evident when he stated in his press conference, “I don’t feel happiness today, just a sadness and doubt [about Mateta].” Uncommonly for a local derby, the game felt lackluster after the seventh minute. Four goals were scored, yet they quickly faded from memory. Attendees at Selhurst Park will likely recall Mateta’s injury while struggling to remember Japhet Tanganga’s own goal or Eddie Nketiah’s stunning header that sealed the win.
Nonetheless, the victory propels Palace closer to Wembley, with just one game standing between them and a potential second FA Cup final in nine years. While the Eagles have had a relatively easy path to the last eight, facing lower-league opponents in all three rounds, advancing further would solidify their progress under Glasner, who has reinvigorated the club’s style of play.
Under Glasner’s guidance, Palace has become an exciting team to watch, a significant shift from previous managerial eras. They play with an extraordinary intensity both on and off the ball, a feat made possible by the players’ unwavering trust in Glasner’s methodologies and strong sense of unity. As former player Rene Gartler noted, “We didn’t train at 80 percent or a little bit slower; it was always 100 percent.” Glasner demands full commitment from his players, which has been crucial to their success.
Gartler shared his admiration for Glasner, stating, “He was very disciplined in his approach, demanding consistency in training. That was a very big key for us being successful.” Players clearly resonate with Glasner’s methods, as evidenced by the improvements seen in individuals like Mateta and Will Hughes. Maxence Lacroix eagerly reunited with Glasner after thriving under his coaching at Wolfsburg.
In the modern football landscape, managers must excel both tactically and in media interactions; it’s no longer sufficient to possess only one of these skills. Glasner has proven himself to be an exceptional coach during his time in South London, and as evidenced by the events of Saturday, he is also a remarkable communicator. Crystal Palace is fortunate to have him at the helm.
