Jan Molby Reveals One ‘Big Boost’ for Crystal Palace Ahead of Liverpool Clash | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Early Statement of Intent as Palace Clash Looms

Liverpool’s start to the new Premier League season could hardly have been more emphatic. Arne Slot’s side, fresh from lifting the title in his debut campaign, have surged to five wins from five and sit five points clear at the top of the table. This weekend feels unusually significant for September. Liverpool travel to Selhurst Park to face Crystal Palace, the only other unbeaten side in the division, while Arsenal head to St James’ Park to take on Newcastle United. Even at this early stage, the outcomes could shape the tone of the title race.

Credit must go to Jan Molby, who shared his insights with Trev Downey for Anfield Index. Molby’s analysis provides a fascinating glimpse into why Palace have become such formidable opponents and why Saturday’s encounter has a whiff of importance well beyond the calendar.

Palace’s Rise Under Glasner

Molby underlined the remarkable work of Oliver Glasner, saying, “Ruben Amorim struggles to play that 3-4-2-1 and it doesn’t work, but Oliver Glasner plays it brilliantly.” Palace’s tactical transformation has been striking, turning them from a mid-table outfit into a side capable of frustrating and outmanoeuvring bigger clubs.

Molby also highlighted their defensive organisation, noting, “The three centre-backs do really well and they have two brilliant wing-backs.” The Austrian manager has clearly instilled discipline and resilience, giving Palace a platform to compete with the very best.

Challenges in Attack

For all their defensive strength, Palace are still searching for fluency in the final third. Molby observed, “They are having a little bit of a problem in attack since Eberechi Eze left for Arsenal, but the organisation further back is outstanding.”

Eze’s departure has undoubtedly left a creative void, although Molby did point to a timely boost, saying, “Adam Wharton returned in the win over West Ham United too, so that’s a big boost for them.” The youngster’s return adds energy and ball progression, both of which will be vital against a Liverpool side renowned for relentless pressing.

Unbeaten Streak Adds Intrigue

Perhaps the most eye-catching statistic Molby shared was Palace’s recent run of form: “I also didn’t realise that they were unbeaten in 17 games and that’s some achievement.” This resilience has elevated them into genuine challengers for a European spot, and it explains why this fixture has drawn so much attention.

Molby also commented on the club’s realities in the transfer market, adding, “But as ambitious as they are, when the big clubs come calling, they are forced to let them go.” This honest assessment reflects Palace’s ongoing challenge of balancing ambition with the financial pull of top-tier clubs.

Title Race Narrative Already Taking Shape

For Liverpool, this weekend is about more than extending their perfect start. Slot’s men are aiming to show that last season’s triumph was not a one-off. Palace, however, will see this as an opportunity to prove their unbeaten streak is no fluke.

Molby’s remark on Palace’s European commitments, “Obviously they’re in Europe this year, which is a big thing for them,” further illustrates the club’s progress under Glasner. Balancing continental football with domestic ambitions will test their depth and resilience, yet their performances so far have defied expectations.

As the weekend unfolds, the spotlight will shine brightly on Selhurst Park. Liverpool’s title defence has begun with precision and power, but Palace’s steel and unbeaten record promise a stern test. In the grand narrative of the season, this match could set an early marker for both teams.