John Textor is contesting a more-than £6 million lawsuit lodged by Bruno Lage after a promised managerial role at Crystal Palace failed to materialize.
Crystal Palace co-owner John Textor faces a legal battle as former coach Bruno Lage seeks more than £6 million. The American investor must defend a High Court claim tied to a broken promise of employment. This dispute may overshadow Palace’s drive for a top-half finish at Selhurst Park. Palace sit 12th in the Premier League as the case unfolds during a critical stretch of fixtures.
Textor controls a 45 per cent stake in Crystal Palace through Eagle Football Holdings. His investment group also owns 77.49 per cent of Olympique Lyon and 90 per cent of Botafogo. Additionally, it holds an 80 per cent stake in Belgian side RWD Molenbeek. This multi-club model underscores Textor’s growing footprint in global football and raises questions about potential conflicts between separate interests.
Bruno Lage filed the claim after a contract promised him a managerial role at Palace or Lyon that never materialized. Both parties signed the deal last year, but no appointment came before the agreement expired. Lage previously managed Botafogo under Textor’s ownership and won the 2018–19 Primeira Liga title in his first Benfica spell. He is now a 48‑year‑old head coach at Benfica, leading the Portuguese champions once more.
Eagle Football Holdings states it remains open to constructive talks to resolve the dispute. The group hopes a settlement will serve both parties and avoid a costly High Court trial. Company leaders emphasize the importance of focusing on on‑field performance and maintaining stability across all clubs. They view swift resolution as vital to protect shareholder value and preserve team morale.
Many insiders find it odd that Textor could promise a Palace job without full board approval. Palace board members and other shareholders share decision-making power over key appointments. This discrepancy underpins the legal challenge lodged at the High Court. Doubts linger over the enforceability of a personal commitment in a complex governance structure.
Observers expect a settlement worth several million pounds to end the litigation swiftly. Textor’s willingness to discuss suggests he aims to avoid a protracted courtroom battle. Financial analysts note that a lump‑sum payout could prove more efficient than ongoing legal fees. Club officials track developments closely as they plan transfer and contract strategies for next season.
Meanwhile, Oliver Glasner, aged 50, continues his work as Palace manager. He took charge in February 2024 and holds a contract through June 2026. Under his guidance, Palace sit 12th in the Premier League table. Glasner has guided Palace to 65 points from 41 Premier League matches, showcasing a resilient and pragmatic style. Supporters praise the Austrian for transforming the club’s form since his arrival.
As the season reaches its climax, this legal storm could test Palace’s resilience both on and off the pitch. A swift resolution would allow the club to refocus on crucial end‑of‑season games. With challenging fixtures ahead, stability at board level is as vital as consistency on the grass. Palace will hope for clarity from the High Court before the final fixtures decide their league standing.
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