Crystal Palace fans have something new to cheer about—and it’s not just what’s happening on the pitch. A shrewd behind-the-scenes move could be the key to unlocking European nights at Selhurst Park.
The club has officially named John Textor’s business associate, Josh Harris Johnson, as a club director in a clever pivot to avoid UEFA’s multiclub ownership conflict rules. The change, though administrative on the surface, carries massive implications—chief among them: clearing Palace’s path to the Europa League.
Why the Move Matters
UEFA’s regulations prohibit two clubs with the same majority ownership from competing in the same European competition. With John Textor’s Eagle Football Group holding stakes in multiple clubs—including Lyon and Botafogo—Palace’s European dreams were clouded by ownership overlap. But by making Johnson a standalone director, the club has maneuvered around potential disqualification from UEFA competitions.
It’s not just a formality—it’s a game-changing strategy.
A Season Worth Fighting For
Palace’s late surge last season under Oliver Glasner caught everyone’s attention. The Eagles didn’t just survive—they soared. With rising stars like Michael Olise and Eberechi Eze electrifying the midfield, and Glasner’s high-octane style clicking into place, Palace looked every bit like a team on the brink of European football.
Now, thanks to this strategic boardroom decision, Palace won’t just fight for a top-six finish—they’ll be eligible to capitalize on it.
Bigger Picture: The Future of Multiclub Ownership
This move sets a precedent in the ever-evolving landscape of multiclub ownership. With wealthy consortiums buying up clubs across the globe, UEFA’s rules are being tested like never before. Palace’s workaround may become a blueprint for other clubs caught in the same bind.
The message is clear: smart governance matters as much as smart tactics.
Final Thoughts
What once looked like a legal hurdle now looks like a launchpad. With Johnson now in the director’s seat and the path to Europe unobstructed, Crystal Palace are poised for their most exciting chapter in decades.
Forget mid-table safety. The Eagles are aiming for the sky—and with no rules holding them back, Europe had better take notice.