Premier League 2025-26 Preview No 8: Crystal Palace
As the new Premier League season looms, Crystal Palace finds itself in a bit of a pickle. The uncertainty surrounding their participation in European competitions, coupled with a quiet transfer window, has left fans and pundits alike scratching their heads. It’s not exactly the ideal setup for a team looking to make waves this year.
Guardian writers’ predicted position: 14th (Note: This is an average prediction from our team of writers, not necessarily Ed Aarons’ personal view)
Last season’s position: 12th
Crystal Palace’s previous campaign saw them finish in a respectable 12th place, but the question on everyone’s mind is whether they can maintain or improve upon that standing. The lack of new signings has been a talking point, with many wondering if the current squad has the depth and quality to compete on multiple fronts.
In a league where every team is looking to strengthen, Palace’s quiet summer has raised eyebrows. The fans are eager for some fresh faces to bolster the squad, but so far, the transfer market has been more of a whisper than a roar for the Eagles. This has led to some concern about their ability to handle the rigors of both domestic and potential European fixtures.
On the flip side, there’s a sense of stability in keeping the core group intact. Manager Roy Hodgson, known for his pragmatic approach, might just have a few tricks up his sleeve. His experience and tactical nous could be the key to navigating the challenges ahead, even if the squad remains largely unchanged.
As the season kicks off, all eyes will be on how Palace adapts to the demands of the Premier League. Will they soar to new heights, or will the lack of reinforcements see them struggle to keep up with the pack? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure: the journey promises to be anything but dull.
For those looking to dive deeper into the intricacies of Crystal Palace’s upcoming season, the full article offers a comprehensive analysis. From tactical breakdowns to player profiles, it’s a must-read for any football aficionado eager to get the inside scoop on the Eagles’ prospects.