Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has doubled down on his controversial decision to substitute star striker Jean-Philippe Mateta at half-time during the team’s 5-2 Premier League defeat to Manchester City on April 12, 2025, risking tension with the in-form forward. The move, which saw Mateta replaced by midfielder Will Hughes, sparked debate among fans and pundits, with many questioning Glasner’s tactics as Palace squandered a two-goal lead at the Etihad Stadium.
Mateta, who had been a standout performer for Palace this season with nine goals in his last ten Premier League matches, played a key role in the second goal, blocking goalkeeper Ederson to create space for Chris Richards’ header. However, Glasner insisted post-match that the substitution was a tactical necessity, not a reflection of Mateta’s contribution. “It was a tactical decision,” Glasner told reporters. “He can do better than he did in the first half. He lost too many duels and too many balls. The mistake I made was to change the system, not to take Mateta off.”
The decision to switch to a 3-5-2 formation in the second half, aiming to control the midfield, backfired as Manchester City capitalized on Palace’s reshuffled setup, scoring four goals after the break. Glasner later admitted the formation change was misguided but remained steadfast in defending Mateta’s withdrawal. “I didn’t make a mistake to sub him,” he said, acknowledging the striker’s frustration but emphasizing the team’s broader strategy.
Mateta, who has been pivotal to Palace’s resurgence under Glasner, including their run to the FA Cup semi-finals, reportedly showed his displeasure at being substituted. Sources close to the club suggest the 27-year-old Frenchman, who missed just one match after a horror head injury in March, felt he could have influenced the game further. His form has been a bright spot for Palace, with 15 goals across all competitions this season, making Glasner’s call all the more surprising.
The public defense of the substitution has raised eyebrows, with some fans on social media expressing concern over potential friction between the manager and his top scorer. One supporter posted, “Glasner’s honesty is refreshing, but calling out Mateta like that might not sit well. JP’s been our best player.” Others backed Glasner, arguing that his willingness to make tough calls shows his commitment to the team’s long-term progress.
Palace’s defeat leaves them mid-table in the Premier League, with their FA Cup semi-final against Aston Villa on the horizon. Glasner’s management has been praised for turning Palace into contenders, with only Liverpool winning more games among Premier League sides in 2025. However, the handling of Mateta, a key figure in their attacking setup, will be closely watched as the season reaches its critical stage.