The echoes of “Glad All Over” reverberated through Selhurst Park on Monday night, not just celebrating a victory, but a statement. Crystal Palace dismantled a lackluster Manchester United 4-0, a result that sent shockwaves through the Premier League. This wasn’t just three points for the Eagles; it was a masterclass in tactics, relentless desire, and clinical finishing that exposed the Red Devils’ vulnerabilities.

Olise Takes Flight: A Star is Born

The night belonged to Michael Olise. The young midfielder, a summer arrival from Reading, announced himself on the grand stage with a performance that belied his age and experience. Olise orchestrated attacks with an effortless grace, his vision carving through United’s midfield like a hot knife through butter. His opening goal was a thing of beauty – a curling free-kick from a tight angle that left David De Gea rooted to the spot, a testament to his technical brilliance. Olise’s second was a composed finish after a well-worked team move, showcasing his ability to not only create but also score. This wasn’t just a one-off performance; it was a glimpse of a star in the making.

Vieira’s Masterstroke: Outfoxing the Red Devils

Patrick Vieira deserves the plaudits for his tactical nous. He mirrored Manchester United’s 4-2-3-1 formation, effectively nullifying their attacking threat. This mirrored approach clogged the central midfield, forcing Bruno Fernandes, United’s usual creative spark, to drift wide into less influential positions. Vieira’s gamble paid off handsomely. The pace and trickery of Wilfried Zaha and Jordan Ayew down the flanks proved a constant menace. They exploited the space behind United’s fullbacks, Luke Shaw and Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who struggled to deal with their movement and directness. Meanwhile, the midfield trio of Schlupp, Doucoure, and Eze provided a solid defensive shield, winning tackles and cutting off passing lanes. Vieira’s halftime adjustments, tightening the central midfield further, stifled any potential United comeback. It was a tactical masterclass from the former Arsenal captain, who outfoxed his more experienced counterpart on the night.

United’s Flat Performance: A Cause for Concern

Manchester United were a shadow of the team that demolished Chelsea the previous week. Their attacking play lacked the creativity and urgency that has defined their better performances under Rangnick. Bruno Fernandes, the catalyst for their attacks, was a peripheral figure, unable to find his usual rhythm. Cristiano Ronaldo, isolated up front, saw very little service. The frustration was palpable on his face, a stark contrast to the jubilant celebrations of the Crystal Palace players. The midfield duo of Fred and McTominay struggled to control the tempo of the game, allowing Palace to dictate the pace and rhythm of the match. This lack of cohesion and direction exposed the cracks in United’s armor, raising serious questions about Rangnick’s suitability for the permanent manager role.

Pressure Mounts on Rangnick: A Crossroads for United

The defeat at Selhurst Park intensifies the pressure on Ralf Rangnick. United’s hopes of a top-four finish are hanging by a thread. Their inconsistency throughout the season, coupled with Monday night’s lackluster display, raises serious doubts about the direction the club is headed. The lack of a clear playing style and the inconsistency in selection raise further questions. Rangnick needs a significant turnaround in the remaining matches to convince the board otherwise. Crucial fixtures against Arsenal and Chelsea loom on the horizon, games that could define their season and Rangnick’s future at the club. United might need a significant overhaul, both on and off the pitch, to bridge the gap between themselves and the Premier League’s elite.

Beyond the Scoreline: A League of Surprises

This match served as a microcosm of the Premier League’s unpredictable nature. Crystal Palace, a team often mired in mid-table obscurity, outplayed a European giant with a vastly superior budget. It underlines the importance of tactical acumen, team spirit, and a well-drilled game plan. Vieira’s tactical nous, coupled with the individual brilliance of Olise and the collective desire of the Palace squad, proved to be a potent combination.

This result also throws the Premier League title race and the battle for the top four wide open. Several teams are still in contention, with any slip-up potentially proving costly. Crystal Palace, with their newfound confidence under Vieira, could yet play a spoiler role in the remaining matches. They have a favorable run-in, facing teams with little to play for, and could potentially disrupt the ambitions of the bigger clubs.

A New Dawn for Palace?

For Crystal Palace, this win signifies a turning point. The victory takes them nine