News Focus
- Pierre Sage confirms he will remain as RC Lens manager next season
- Crystal Palace had targeted the French coach to replace outgoing boss Oliver Glasner
- Sage admits managing in England is a dream, but chooses Champions League campaign with Lens
- The 41-year-old led Lens to second place in Ligue 1 this season
Pierre Sage has ended speculation about his future. The French coach will stay at RC Lens for the upcoming campaign. This decision comes despite strong interest from Crystal Palace.
The Premier League side had identified Sage as a leading candidate for their vacant manager position. They need a new boss after Oliver Glasner confirmed his departure from Selhurst Park. Reports from L’Équipe suggested Palace held concrete talks with the manager.
Sage recently guided Lens to a second-place finish in Ligue 1. This success secured Champions League football for the club next term. Last Tuesday, he hinted he might remain at the Stade Bollaert-Delelis. However, comments about “lots of contacts” with other clubs created some doubt.
The situation became clearer on Sunday. Speaking to Téléfoot, Sage described managing in England as a “dream.” But he confirmed his immediate future lies in France. When asked directly about next season, he gave a firm answer. He will honour his contract with Lens.
This decision means Crystal Palace must continue their search elsewhere. They still need a replacement for Glasner before the new season starts. Meanwhile, Sage will prepare for his first-ever Champions League campaign with the French club.