Michael Olise’s stellar performance powered Crystal Palace to a resounding 4-0 victory over Manchester United, marking the club’s first-ever Premier League double over their illustrious opponents and compounding Erik ten Hag’s woes.
Olise showcased his brilliance with two goals, complemented by strikes from the in-form Jean-Philippe Mateta and Tyrick Mitchell, as Palace’s resurgence under manager Oliver Glasner gains momentum.
Amid speculation linking him with a move to Old Trafford, Olise dazzled at Selhurst Park, tallying nine goals in 12 league starts this season. His dazzling efforts in the 12th and 66th minutes sum up Palace’s dominance, securing their fourth win in five Premier League matches.
It was yet another dismal outing for Ten Hag’s side, with United’s hopes of European qualification hanging by a thread. Plagued by injuries, the Red Devils only managed two wins in their last 10 Premier League matches, potentially facing their lowest-ever league finish.
Despite the return of some key players, including Evans, United struggled from the outset. Olise’s early breakthrough, evading challenges from Christian Eriksen and Casemiro, set the tone for Palace’s dominance, leaving United’s defense in disarray.
Many United fans believe it is time for a change of boss at Old Trafford Ten Hag fails to arrest a slide in his second season in charge.
United have only been absent from European competition once since the 1989-90 season.
That came after finishing seventh in David Moyes’ sole campaign 10 years ago and the Scot was sacked with four games of the season to go.
United have never come lower than seventh in the Premier League era but are staring that possibility in the face with title-chasing Arsenal to come at Old Trafford on Sunday.
Ten Hag has routinely cited injury problems as mitigation for his side’s struggles.
The Dutchman was forced to cobble together a makeshift backline as Casemiro deputised out of position at centre-back, alongside 36-year-old Jonny Evans.
Referee Jarred Gillett’s decision not to award Palace a penalty further frustrated the visitors, who failed to contain Olise’s threat throughout the match. His sublime goal epitomized Palace’s superiority on the day and served as a stark reminder of United’s defensive vulnerabilities.
