Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner confirmed he will leave at season's end, a bombshell announced just before Saturday's trip to Sunderland. The Eagles are also without captain Marc Guehi, whose £20m move to Manchester City is in its final stages. The timing creates immediate uncertainty for the squad.

Jean-Philippe Mateta starts for Palace amid his own transfer links, part of seven changes from their FA Cup defeat. Sunderland make four alterations, welcoming Brian Brobbey as they chase a top-half spot. A win could see Palace leapfrog the Black Cats, adding stakes to a fixture already clouded by off-field drama.

Sunderland's unbeaten home run provides a tough backdrop for a Palace side reeling from Glasner's exit. The manager cited a desire for a 'new challenge' after nearly two years. With Guehi departing and the squad in flux, this match tests their immediate resilience before a summer overhaul begins.