Eagles eye Europa appeal after Wembley triumph

Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has emphatically stated he wouldn't trade their Community Shield triumph for Europa League qualification next season. The Eagles secured their second trophy in three months with a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Premier League champions Liverpool after a 2-2 draw at Wembley.

European Qualification Controversy

The club faces uncertainty about their European participation in 2025-26 due to UEFA's multi-club ownership rules. American investor John Textor's stakes in both Crystal Palace and Lyon (who qualified for Europa League) prompted UEFA to relegate Palace to the Conference League.

Palace has appealed the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), with a verdict expected imminently. The appeal challenges UEFA's ruling, Lyon, and Premier League rivals Nottingham Forest.

"No," Glasner responded when asked if he'd exchange the Wembley victory for successful appeal. "The players weren't distracted by external noise. Tomorrow's decision is beyond our control - tonight we celebrate, tomorrow we train."

Players Voice Their Concerns

Goalkeeper Dean Henderson, the penalty shootout hero, argued that relegation to the Conference League would "devalue the competition":

• "Our FA Cup win justifies Europa League qualification"
• "On-pitch achievements should determine European places"
• "Fans have waited generations for this European opportunity"

Henderson emphasized: "Taking this away contradicts football's fundamental principles. I believe UEFA will recognize this and reinstate our rightful Europa League place."

The decision will significantly impact Crystal Palace's preseason preparations and the aspirations of their long-suffering supporters.