Crystal Palace co-owner John Textor has revealed that he harbored immediate concerns about the club's participation in European competitions moments after their historic FA Cup victory in May. The win, which saw Palace triumph over Manchester City at Wembley, was a monumental achievement for the club and its fans. However, Textor's dual involvement with both Crystal Palace and French club Lyon has cast a shadow over their European aspirations due to UEFA's stringent rules on multi-club ownership.

Textor, who has agreed to sell his 43% stake in Palace to fellow American Woody Johnson, owner of the NFL's New York Jets, expressed his mixed emotions following the FA Cup win. "I was very happy, but I felt the gravity of it," Textor told Talksport. "And I was concerned on the same day holding the cup next to Prince William. It was a great moment and I couldn't have been happier for the fans, but yeah, I was worried about what was coming."

The situation has been further complicated by Lyon's recent appeal victory against their relegation from Ligue 1 due to financial difficulties. French football authorities had initially demoted the seven-time champions to Ligue 2, but the decision was overturned. This development could impact Palace's chances of playing in the Europa League next season, as Lyon has also qualified for the competition. UEFA is expected to make a ruling on the matter by the end of the week.

Textor emphasized that while he has played a supportive role at Palace, his involvement has not been decisively influential. "I help a lot. I showed up during Covid and paid off Covid debt. I helped finish the academy," he added. "I am sitting there on the board with four other guys. Steve Parish is making the decisions and bringing us players. He involves us but he doesn't really listen to us. A suggestion from time to time is not the same as decisive influence."

As Crystal Palace fans celebrate their FA Cup triumph, the club's future in European competitions remains uncertain. The outcome of UEFA's decision will be crucial in determining whether Palace can build on their historic victory and compete on the European stage next season.