Crystal Palace has ushered in a new era with the appointment of Pierre Sage as head coach. Sage's initial press conference revealed a stark contrast to his predecessor, Oliver Glasner, marked by a candid and transparent communication style.

Sage, who previously led Lens to Champions League qualification and secured the French Cup, is described as an intelligent, dignified, and sincere communicator. Unlike Glasner, whose interactions with the media were often contentious, Sage engaged with reporters for 40 minutes, offering direct insights into his philosophy and plans for the team. "I’m quiet, shy, maybe," Sage admitted, "But when I speak and I’m hungry, they know."

Coming from outside the traditional football establishment, Sage highlighted his journey as an amateur coach who achieved his dream of managing in the Premier League. He aims to be a role model for other aspiring coaches, emphasizing hard work and seizing opportunities. "I came from the bottom. Now I’m here, I just want to give my best," he stated.

Sage acknowledged the challenges posed by the staggered return of players from the World Cup but stressed his pragmatic approach to integrating his ideas gradually. He expects results from week one, beginning with the match against Everton. His tactical framework is built on "three pillars": aggressive pressing to recover the ball quickly, efficient build-up play to create possession in advanced areas, and attacking with depth to apply pressure on opponents. Set-pieces are also a key focus.

Regarding player transfers, Sage expressed confidence that key players like Adam Wharton, Ismaila Sarr, and Daniel Munoz will remain at the club. Manchester City's interest in Wharton has been rebuffed, with Palace valuing the midfielder at over £100 million. Galatasaray's bid for Sarr was also rejected, as the club considers him vital. While Everton has shown interest in Munoz, Sage indicated the player is happy at Palace.

"We will, we will," Sage responded when asked about Sarr's future, calling him a "really important player." He also addressed Wharton's situation, suggesting that another year at Palace would be beneficial for his development. "One year with us and a new dynamic will be good for him. We need him and that’s why he will stay with us. I hope he continues his improvement."

Sage also commented on the need to strengthen the squad, particularly in the centre-back position, and expressed his desire for a player with Premier League experience. The club is reportedly in talks to loan Axel Disasi from Chelsea. Unlike Glasner, who was known for publicly criticizing the board over transfer dealings, Sage conveyed his needs with humility.

Matheus Franca, who has struggled since his arrival, has shown promise in pre-season, scoring four goals and adapting to a central striker role. Sage believes the young Brazilian has talent and needs the right context to adapt to European football.

Cheick Doucoure, sidelined for 18 months with a knee injury, is back and available to play. Sage emphasized the need for patience and psychological support as the midfielder works his way back to full match fitness. "He’s able to start," Sage said, "He didn’t play much during the last two seasons so we have to consider him within this situation. He needs time to come back and we will take our time to let him in a good context, particularly on the psychological side."