Crystal Palace's The search for a new manager has provided another sign of former chelsea Striker Hernan Crespo is on the radar of English clubs as he attempts a return to the country.
The Argentine, who won the Premier League title with Chelsea under Jose Mourinho, is in talks with English clubs ahead of next season.
According to Brazilian outlet TrivelaCrystal Palace consider Crespo during their managerial search before making move Towards the appointment of Pierre SageWhile Championship clubs have also held discussions with the 50-year-old.
This development is interesting given the increasing number of coaching vacancies and changes in English football this summer.
Crespo remains without a club after leaving Sao Paulo in March, but his profile appears to be attracting attention after a coaching career that has seen him lift trophies in South America, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.
Proven winner in English link building
Hernán Crespo's greatest achievement as a manager came with Al Ain, leading the Emirati club to a surprise AFC Champions League victory in 2024.
Before that, he won the Copa Sudamericana with Defensa y Justicia, won silverware with Al-Duhail and ended Sao Paulo's long wait for a trophy by securing the Paulista title in 2021.
Those successes have helped build a reputation as a coach who favors active football. Crespo recently explained that his teams are built around ball possession, aggressive play and offensive pressure, while maintaining balance when recovering the ball.
This approach may appeal to clubs in both the Premier League and Championship as English football continues to favor front-foot coaches capable of developing a clear tactical identity.
The Chelsea connection remains strong
While Crystal Palace are set to move in the other direction, the report is another reminder that Crespo's ambitions remain focused on England.
The former striker spent five years on Chelsea's books between 2003 and 2008, winning the Premier League and sharing the dressing room with players like Didier Drogba, John Terry and Frank Lampard.
He has repeatedly spoken about his passion for English football and recently described the Premier League as his favorite destination.
Apart from his sporting career, there is also an interesting Chelsea angle. Despite the club changing managers this summer, Crespo never seemed to emerge as a serious candidate for the role, despite his historical ties with Stamford Bridge and a growing managerial CV.
Instead, interest in the English game is currently coming from elsewhere. Palace may be close to appointing Sage, but talks with Crespo suggest the English club are keen to look at his credentials.
The former Chelsea forward appears determined to turn his long-held Premier League ambition into reality, with more meetings planned in the coming days.
