Pierre Sage's Crystal Palace stint ends after just 16 matches
What's the story
Crystal Palace have parted ways with manager Pierre Sage after just 16 matches in charge. The decision comes as the club sits at the bottom of the Premier League table, having won only two of their last 10 league games under Sage. He was appointed in June on a three-year deal to replace Oliver Glasner. Here are further details on the same.
Official statement
Crystal Palace confirm Sage's departure in an official statement
Palace confirmed Sage's departure in an 81-word statement on Thursday afternoon.
The club also announced that three members of his coaching staff - Jamal Alioui, Damien Della Santa, and Sandy Guichard - have also left the club.
The statement further promised an update on the process of appointing a new manager would be provided in due course.
Performance review
Sage's record at Crystal Palace
Under Sage's management, Crystal Palace managed 5 wins, 3 draws and 8 defeats from 16 matches.
Notably, Palace have the worst defensive record in the Premier League this season, having conceded 24 goals.
His predecessor Oliver Glasner had led the club through its most successful period, winning the FA Cup, UEFA Conference League, and FA Community Shield.
However, key players from that era left with him in summer and Palace were also the lowest spenders across Premier League during this time.
Potential replacement
Who are the candidates to replace Sage?
Former Brentford boss Thomas Frank has emerged as the leading contender to take over at Crystal Palace after their defeat to Liverpool on Sunday.
He was one of the names the club considered in summer before appointing Sage. Other candidates included Frank Lampard, Sean Dyche, Vitor Pereira, Kim Hellberg, Vitor Matos, and Tony Popovic.
Jens Berthel Askou and Ole Werner were also considered but are currently managing Toulouse and previously managed RB Leipzig until June 2026 respectively.
Career highlights
Frank's managerial history in England
Frank had a successful stint at Brentford from 2018 to 2025, taking the club to the Premier League and securing a ninth-place finish in 2023.
However, his time at Tottenham was marred by setbacks and he was sacked after less than eight months with the club in 16th place.
Despite these challenges, Frank remains a strong candidate for Palace's managerial position given his past achievements in English football.
Twitter Post
Over!
Crystal Palace Football Club can confirm that Pierre Sage has left his role as Manager.
— Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) November 12, 2026
The club would like to place on record its thanks to Pierre and his staff for their efforts during their time in South London, and wish them well for the future.https://t.co/JcVHA6FIhe pic.twitter.com/VAM8XnpHlq