Crystal Palace Starting XI vs AEK Larnaca: Confirmed Team News and Predicted Lineup | OneFootball

Palace predicted lineup and team news for Conference League clash with Larnaca

Crystal Palace will look to maintain their flawless start in Europe as they host AEK Larnaca in the Conference League. Manager Oliver Glasner confirmed that there are “no fresh injury concerns” following the chaotic 3-3 draw with Bournemouth, providing some rare stability during a demanding schedule.

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Glasner eyes balance amid rotation

The Austrian coach faces a delicate balancing act, with Palace set to play four games in just nine days. Glasner is expected to rotate heavily, keeping his squad fresh while maintaining the rhythm that has defined their early European form.

Borna Sosa’s suspension, following his red card against Dynamo Kyiv, forces one change in defence. The Croatian full-back had featured in every Conference League match so far, including both legs of the play-off victory over Fredrikstad. His absence opens the door for a reshuffle, with 19-year-old Jaydee Canvot tipped to make his senior debut.

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Predicted Palace lineup and key changes

Palace’s predicted lineup for the Larnaca tie reflects a mix of youth and experience: Henderson; Guehi, Lacroix, Canvot; Mitchell, Hughes, Wharton, Munoz; Nketiah, Kamada; Mateta.

Will Hughes is likely to return to midfield, offering composure alongside Wharton, while Eddie Nketiah could earn his first start of the season. The striker made a strong impact from the bench against Dynamo Kyiv, scoring late to seal a 2-0 win, and is “in line to play as one of the two No10s behind Mateta.”

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Mateta, fresh from a hat-trick against Bournemouth, is expected to lead the line again. His form provides a focal point for Glasner’s attack, particularly against a Larnaca side who began their campaign with a commanding 4-0 victory over AZ Alkmaar.

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Injury update and absentees

Long-term injuries to Chadi Riad, Cheick Doucoure and Caleb Kphora continue to limit defensive options, though Glasner revealed that Riad “is a couple of weeks away from returning to training.” With squad depth being tested early in the season, Palace’s ability to adapt will define their European journey.

A win on Thursday would place Glasner’s side firmly in control of their Conference League group and underline their growing maturity on the continental stage.