Pierre Sage denies tensions with Steve Parish at Crystal Palace

Pierre Sage has moved to calm the chatter around Crystal Palace, specifically rumours of tension with club president Steve Parish. As reported by RMC Sport, the French coach dismissed any conflict after Jaydee Canvot was left out of the team for the most recent match.

A “transparent” relationship

Speaking in a press conference, Sage said things are fine behind the scenes and that the story has been blown out of proportion. “It’s been described as a story, it’s not official. If you want the final say on it, ask Steve Parish. I spoke with him a few days ago about this and there’s no problem,” RMC Sport quotes him as saying. He also stressed he always tries to explain his decisions, and that the club’s leadership reacts—but remains aligned.

Back in Europe at Selhurst Park

The timing is tough for the Eagles. Crystal Palace return to European competition more than a year and a half after their last run, and this Thursday they host Lech Poznan at 21:00 for the Europa League. They earned their place by winning the Conference League last season.

Why Canvot was dropped

The Canvot decision is what sparked the discussion. RMC Sport notes the defender was brought in from Toulouse for €23 million at the end of 2025’s window, and had earned a starting role after Marc Guehi moved to Manchester City. Before the latest fixture, Sage had kept him in the starting XI earlier in the campaign, but then excluded him for sporting reasons—citing his performance versus Fulham and what he did during the week. He said he expects a strong response starting from Monday.

With Canvot’s status—on the pitch, on the bench, or in the stands—set to be watched closely, Thursday’s Europa League clash carries extra weight for Palace.