By BBC Sport Correspondent
Updated 2 hours ago

Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has struck an optimistic tone ahead of Sunday's Community Shield clash, declaring himself "fundamentally positive" about the club's ongoing appeal against UEFA's controversial European competition demotion.

The Ownership Conundrum

• UEFA Ruling: Palace were relegated from Europa League to Conference League due to John Textor's dual ownership stakes
• Key Figures: American investor Textor holds 40% of Palace and 77% of Olympique Lyonnais
• Premier League Impact: Nottingham Forest (7th in 2023/24) stand to inherit Palace's Europa League spot

"This isn't just about Palace's European future," Glasner emphasized. "It's about clarifying ownership structures across modern football. Our operations remain completely independent from Lyon in every sporting decision."

Timeline of Events

Financial Stakes

• Europa League prize money: €15m+ baseline
• Conference League equivalent: €7.5m
• Commercial implications estimated at £20m loss

Former UEFA compliance officer Marc Dutton told BBC Sport: "This case could set precedent for multi-club investments. UEFA's Article 5 needs clearer interpretation in globalized football ownership."

Fan Reactions

• FreePalace trends on social media

• Supporters plan Wembley protests during Community Shield
• Lyon ultras release statement denying collusion claims

Glasner concluded: "While we respect UEFA's framework, we believe in fair process. Our focus remains on the pitch, starting with Liverpool this weekend."