Crystal Palace manager Pierre Sage apologised to fans after the Eagles suffered a humiliating 5-0 defeat to Brighton at Selhurst Park. Palace conceded three goals in the opening 10 minutes, marking their worst loss to their rivals since January 1956. "It's my fault because I am the coach," Sage said. "We played so bad it's my fault." The Frenchman, appointed in the summer, admitted he was unsure whether he would be given time to turn the team's form around. Under predecessor Oliver Glasner, Palace enjoyed historic success, winning the FA Cup in 2025 and the Conference League in May.
However, Sage has struggled since arriving, with Palace 14th in the Premier League after two wins from seven games and shipping 17 goals—the most in the league. "I just want to apologise to the fans," Sage added. "We were not at the level we expected." He described feeling only "shame" after the match. Palace face Besiktas in the Europa League on Thursday before hosting Newcastle on Sunday.
Source: BBC Sport Football · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing