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Glasner opens door to Serie A future ahead of Fiorentina return leg

ยทBy Junior Yekini
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Oliver Glasner has said he would be open to managing in Serie A one day, speaking ahead of Crystal Palace's Conference League quarter-final second leg at Fiorentina's Stadio Franchi on Thursday.

The Austrian was asked about the perceived gap between the Premier League and Italian football, particularly after Palace's 3-0 first-leg win and Aston Villa's similarly dominant display against Bologna. His assessment of Serie A was respectful.

"I am now focused only on the last weeks of this season, but I always follow Serie A," Glasner said. "I am open to considering the idea of coming to Italy, of course, but what counts for me is the ambition of the club where I go to work. But I am not thinking about my future now."

Asked what atmosphere he expects at the Franchi, Glasner said the closed section during Fiorentina's recent home match against Lazio had caught his eye.

"I watched the game against Lazio and the empty part of the stadium struck me โ€” it's a shame that part of the ground was closed, but I am certain the fans will create a great atmosphere.

"I don't think Fiorentina will change much from their recent games. I'm surprised to have scored three goals against a side that is in very good form, and also by the number of chances we created. I expect much more aggression from Fiorentina. I'm certain both teams will play with the same mentality."

Glasner also confirmed that Crystal Palace will not approach the second leg defensively despite their commanding lead. Jean-Philippe Mateta is available after recovering from injury, though the coach hinted the Frenchman's future at the club is uncertain. Elsewhere, Guessand is ruled out for two weeks, while all other players are available. Palace are in their first-ever European quarter-final.