Premier League 2026-27 preview No 8: Crystal Palace

Crystal Palace have emerged as serious contenders for a top-four finish in the 2026-27 Premier League season, according to latest reports. The South London club finished eighth last term with 52 points from 38 matches, but have strengthened their squad considerably during the summer window. Palace's recruitment drive reflects manager Oliver Glaston's ambitions to challenge the traditional elite, building on a foundation that includes young talents like Eberechi Eze, who notched seven goals and four assists in the previous campaign.

The Eagles' push up the table matters significantly given their historical struggles against the division's top six. Palace have won just three of their last 24 meetings against the traditional "Big Six" clubs, averaging fewer than a goal per game in such fixtures. However, their attacking reinforcements this summer—including a dynamic winger and a clinical finisher—address longstanding weaknesses that saw them create fewer clear-cut chances than any side finishing in the top half last season. This represents a strategic shift towards more aggressive football.

Palace's 2026-27 campaign will test whether these investments translate to sustained European qualification ambitions. The club made 31 league appearances on average per player last season, suggesting depth improvements are crucial for a lengthy title push. If Glaston's side maintain consistency through the gruelling winter months and deliver the expected improvement in their conversion rate, they could genuinely challenge for a Champions League position—something unthinkable for the Selhurst Park faithful just eighteen months ago.