LONDON: Pierre Sage faces scrutiny over his position as Crystal Palace manager, BBC Sport reported after Sunday’s 5–0 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion.
The Frenchman has won two of his first seven Premier League matches. Palace have conceded 17 goals, the most in the division.
Club figures have concerns about Sage’s tactical approach and its effect on defensive organisation. However, some also recognise the difficult circumstances surrounding his start.
Injuries and major departures have reduced his options. Against Brighton, his three-man central defence included Jaydee Canvot (20) and Honest Ahanor (18).
Palace have lost Marc Guehi, Maxence Lacroix and Daniel Muñoz from their defence. Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise have also departed since summer 2024.
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Meanwhile, sporting director Matt Hobbs faces scrutiny over recruitment after Dougie Freedman left in 2025.
Co-owner and chairman Steve Parish must weigh those problems against the team’s performances. Some figures close to Palace believe Sage’s tenure could end once the club identifies a suitable replacement.
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But finding a successor presents its own difficulties. Palace failed to appoint first-choice target Andoni Iraola before choosing Sage to replace Oliver Glasner.
Sage apologised to supporters after the Brighton defeat. Palace next visit Beşiktaş in the Europa League on Thursday before hosting Newcastle United in the Premier League on Sunday.
