Crystal Palace considering surprise appointment of ex-Chelsea defender Filipe Luís – report | OneFootball

Crystal Palace are reportedly expanding their search for a new manager, with former Chelsea and Atletico Madrid star Filipe Luís emerging as a shock candidate to take the reins at Selhurst Park.

According to talkSPORT’s Alex Crook, while Bournemouth’s outgoing boss Andoni Iraola remains the club’s “top target,” the Eagles are keeping a close eye on the Brazilian tactical prodigy as they prepare for life after Oliver Glasner.

The south London club is at a crossroads following Glasner’s decision to depart at the end of this season that has seen Palace reach their first-ever European final.

While ambitious moves for Iraola are underway, the potential appointment of Luis represents a bold shift toward one of the most exciting young coaches in world football.

Crystal Palace eyeing surprise move for Filipe Luis

The interest in Filipe Luís comes at a time when the 40-year-old’s stock has never been higher.

Despite a surprising sacking from Flamengo in March 2026, reportedly due to boardroom friction rather than performance, Lues is emerging as a manager in high demand.

Alex Crook revealed that while Palace have made it clear to Iraola that he is their preferred choice, no formal offer has been signed, leaving the door open for alternative candidates.

Taking to X, Crook revealed: “Ambitious #CPFC have made it clear to Andoni Iraola he would be their top target. No formal offer and nothing advanced yet as per my tweet yesterday. May depend on whether Palace follow up their interest. Felipe Luis another name under consideration by the Eagles.”

With Chelsea also reportedly monitoring Iraola’s situation, the Palace hierarchy is ensuring they have elite contingencies in place.

Filipe Luis’ impressive managerial record

To Premier League fans, Filipe Luis is best remembered as a world-class left-back who won the title with Chelsea in 2015.

However, since retiring in late 2023, his transition into management has been nothing short of incredible.

Taking charge of Flamengo in September 2024, he orchestrated a period of unprecedented dominance in South American football.

In just 18 months, he achieved a remarkable 70% win rate across 101 matches and secured seven titles.

His style of play is influenced by his time under Diego Simeone with more focus on positional play.

Felipe became the first person in Brazilian history to win the Libertadores and the national league as both a player and a coach.