Oliver Glasner’s Crystal Palace have had a slow start to the Premier League season, managing just two points from their first four games, with four goals scored and seven conceded. In their last outing, Glasner switched to a 4-2-2-2 system around the 60th minute when down 2-1 to Leicester City, which helped rescue a point.
To make this tactical shift work, one defender from the back five has to step aside, and Nathaniel Clyne might be the one to sit out ahead of their clash with Manchester United.
Why Clyne Should Be Dropped
Clyne has been a valuable asset for Palace, featuring in 222 games across two stints, with one goal and nine assists to his name. However, for Glasner’s 4-2-2-2 formation to work, Clyne, currently playing as a right-sided central defender, may not be the best fit in a back four. With Daniel Munoz ready to slot in as the right-back, Clyne could make way for an extra midfielder.
Glasner’s Tactical Shift
New signing Daichi Kamada, who joined from Lazio, has already impressed with a goal and two assists in 371 minutes. Despite coming off the bench in Palace’s 2-2 draw with Leicester, Kamada could start if Glasner moves to a back four, adding more creativity and attacking options.
Kamada’s stats this season highlight his progressive passing and shot-creating actions, making him a key figure in Glasner’s new system. Pairing Kamada with Eberechi Eze in the 4-2-2-2 setup would give both players the freedom to roam, create, and link up with the two strikers, while attacking fullbacks like Munoz provide additional support.
First start at Selhurst, first goal.
Love it, Daichi 🇯🇵#CPFC pic.twitter.com/rr81qfBYMh
— Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) August 11, 2024
Glasner may need to be bold and drop Clyne, especially after their midweek win over QPR using a back five. With their slow start, this could be the ideal moment to catch Manchester United off guard and spark a turnaround in Palace’s season.