Crystal Palace’s Oliver Glasner Reflects on Life-Threatening Injury That Ended Playing Career

Oliver Glasner, the new manager of Crystal Palace, has opened up about a life-threatening injury he endured during his playing days, shedding light on his profound understanding of health challenges, particularly in light of Roy Hodgson’s recent illness.

Recalling a personal health scare in 2011, Glasner recounted how he underwent emergency surgery for a subdural hematoma just before his 37th birthday. Doctors had given him a “50/50” chance of survival, a daunting realization that has left a lasting impact on him.

During his press conference, Glasner expressed heartfelt empathy for Hodgson’s situation, emphasizing the paramount importance of health above all else. He stressed that health is often overlooked amidst the fervor of football, yet it remains the most precious asset.

Glasner’s own brush with mortality serves as a poignant reminder of this truth, prompting him to prioritize well-being over the demands of the game. Reflecting on the incident, he shared details of the injury, which occurred during an Austrian Bundesliga match against Rapid Vienna.

Following a clash of heads that necessitated stitches, Glasner displayed signs of a concussion, with symptoms worsening during a subsequent Europa League trip to Copenhagen. His room-mate’s alertness led to medical intervention, highlighting the gravity of the situation.

For Glasner, the experience reinforced the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing one’s health above all else. As he embarks on his managerial journey with Crystal Palace, his personal ordeal serves as a poignant reminder of the profound value of well-being amidst the whirlwind of football.