Roy Hodgson Steps Down as Crystal Palace Boss to Facilitate Appointment of New Manager
Roy Hodgson has resigned from his position as Crystal Palace manager in order to expedite the club's plans to hire a new manager.
The Eagles have swiftly appointed former Eintracht Frankfurt boss Oliver Glasner, aged 49, as his permanent successor.
Hodgson, aged 76, fell "ill" during training on Thursday amid speculations of his impending dismissal, with Palace holding a five-point lead above the relegation zone.
"This club holds a very special place in my heart," stated Hodgson.
The Eagles have suffered 10 defeats in their last 16 Premier League matches and currently occupy 16th place in the table. Their next fixture is against Everton, who are placed 18th, on Monday.
"I have thoroughly enjoyed my tenure here over six seasons, as it has afforded me the opportunity to work alongside top-class players and staff, doing what I love each day," continued Hodgson.
"However, given recent events, I believe it is prudent for the club to plan for the future, and thus, I have made the decision to step down to allow the club to expedite their plans for a new manager, as originally intended for this summer.
"I am optimistic about the team's prospects for the remainder of the season, and I wish them every success in the coming weeks, months, and years."
The club confirmed Hodgson's discharge from the hospital and noted his positive recovery.
"Roy has a special place in Crystal Palace history, and this will always be remembered," expressed chairman Steve Parish.
"After four years of guiding the club to maintain Premier League status consistently, he returned nearly a year ago to provide stability once again and worked wonders. Simply put, our continuous Premier League presence is owed to Roy.
"I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Roy for his dedicated service and wish him the very best for the future. It's undeniable that Roy holds the keys to Selhurst Park and will always be warmly received."
Hodgson embarked on his second tenure at Palace, taking over for the final 10 matches of last season under a short-term contract succeeding Patrick Vieira.
Under his leadership, the club secured an 11th-place finish in the table, leading to his agreement to continue managing the side for the 2023-24 campaign, a decision Parish hailed as "testament to his dedication to our club."
His decision to substitute midfielder Eberechi Eze during the second half of Palace's FA Cup replay defeat to Everton, as well as his management of injured winger Michael Olise against Brighton, both sparked significant criticism.
Olise was forced off just 11 minutes after coming on as a halftime substitute at Amex Stadium earlier this month.
Fans also displayed banners protesting against the club's management during recent matches against Arsenal and Brighton.
Following the 4-1 defeat to Roberto de Zerbi's side, Hodgson asserted his "strength and resilience" to reverse the team's poor form.
Glasner clinched the Europa League title with Frankfurt in 2022 during his debut season in charge, triumphing over Scottish side Rangers in the final via penalties.
After guiding Frankfurt to the Champions League knockout stages last year, the Austrian departed the club at the end of the season with a year remaining on his contract, following a 10-match winless streak in the Bundesliga.
From Halmstad to England - Hodgson's managerial career
Hodgson embarked on his managerial journey in 1976 with Swedish side Halmstad, overseeing 17 club teams and four international squads over a career spanning 48 years.
Throughout his illustrious career, he amassed 15 major honors, including two Swedish titles with Malmo, where he held the reins from 1985 to 1989.
Furthermore, he attained runner-up status in the Uefa Cup with Inter Milan in 1997 and the Europa League with Fulham in 2010.
Hodgson's venture into international management commenced with Switzerland in 1992, followed by stints with the United Arab Emirates and Finland.
In May 2012, he assumed the role of England boss, securing victory in 33 of his 56 matches in charge.
Under his leadership, the Three Lions competed in three major tournaments, albeit failing to secure a trophy since 1966.
Their journey included a quarter-final exit in Euro 2012, a group stage elimination in the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, and a humiliating last-16 departure against Iceland in Euro 2016.
Upon his departure from Palace in 2021, Hodgson refrained from declaring retirement, subsequently joining Watford in January 2022. However, he was unable to steer the Hornets to Premier League survival.
Despite his departure from Vicarage Road, Hodgson expressed uncertainty about assuming another role in the Premier League.
In May, he asserted his reluctance to use the term "retire" when discussing his future endeavors in football.