Crystal Palace have confirmed the appointment of ex-Arsenal midfielder Patrick Vieira until 2024. The former player comes in having previously managed French side Nice and American side New York City. The Palace job will be the first time he has managed in England.
In truth, not many will be able to predict just how well Vieira does. He never impressed enough to earn high praise in France and was sacked after two and a half years in charge. His appointment is one of the most interesting ones around Europe. It could either be a stroke of genius or the beginning of the ultimate disaster for Crystal Palace.
Palace Confirm Patrick Vieira Appointment
Vieira Must Rebuild
Patrick Vieira’s job was never going to be easy, but it’s been made significantly harder by the prospect of a rebuild. A number of players have already departed Selhurst Park including the vastly experienced Gary Cahill. In fact, in total, the club allowed 11 players to leave as free agents. The fact is, Patrick Vieira is entering the job after a mass exodus.
All of a sudden, Palace have gone from the stable, albeit mediocrity of mid-table finishes to a fairly depleted squad and an inexperienced manager. Such is the cut-throat nature of the Premier League, too, if Palace aren’t careful, they could be dragged into a relegation scrap.
Sheffield United are a prime example of just how quickly the tide can change in the top flight and Crystal Palace will be desperate not to follow in the Blades’ footsteps. Whether Vieira can keep them on the right path is another question all together. His first task will undoubtedly be to keep Wilfried Zaha, who always looks on the verge of departing before eventually staying put.
Palace fans will hope that a change in both the squad and the management does not signal the exit of their star man.
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