Crystal Palace Gears Up for FA Cup Semis with Timely Fitness Boost
Those following Crystal Palace know the club has been desperate for a spark this season. Well, here it is: right before their biggest match of the year—the FA Cup semi-final against Aston Villa—manager Oliver Glasner announced a wave of good news. Several key players are now fit and ready, and it’s not coming a moment too soon. Glasner kept the specifics under wraps, but his enthusiasm was clear in training this week: 'We’re getting stronger by the day, and the belief in the squad is through the roof.'
This sense of optimism is a big shift for Palace. Earlier this campaign, injuries stacked up at the worst times. With big names on the sidelines, consistency was tough to come by. Now, with Wembley in sight, confidence in the locker room seems to be peaking at exactly the right moment.
Wembley Dream Fueled by FA Cup Tradition and Determination
Glasner didn’t hide his respect for the FA Cup, calling it 'very traditional' and a 'huge cup' that everyone at the club takes seriously. For Palace fans, the connection runs deeper. The club’s last FA Cup final appearance was in 2016 when Manchester United broke their hearts in extra time. Reaching this year’s final inside Wembley Stadium would mean a shot at the club’s first major honor.
Inside the Palace camp, the determination is palpable. Veterans and younger players alike are hoping to etch their names in the club’s history books. The manager is tapping into that drive, telling reporters, 'We understand what’s at stake, not just for us but for everyone who wears and supports this badge.' Players have reportedly stepped up intensity at training, with squad competition back at full throttle thanks to those returns from injury.
Some fans expected Glasner to reveal which stars are back—perhaps hoping for word on talisman Eberechi Eze or defensive rock Joachim Andersen. He wouldn’t tip his hand, keeping Aston Villa guessing. But there’s no doubt: a healthier squad means trouble for any opponent.
This semi-final is as much about momentum as it is about talent. Palace already knocked out strong sides to get here, and belief is running high. Glasner and his men are targeting May 17, when they could face either Nottingham Forest or Manchester City for the crown. For now, though, all eyes are on Villa, and a return to the FA Cup final feels more within reach than ever.
