Crystal Palace manager hails Ismaila Sarr impact

Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has given rave reviews about Senegal international Ismaïla Sarr following his fine form in the English top flight and the Conference League.

Having scored again against Zrinjski Mostar in the Conference League on Thursday, Ismaïla Sarr is now just one goal away from surpassing his first season at Crystal Palace with the Eagles set to rely on the lanky forward in the absence of France striker Jean-Philippe Mateta.

Ismaila Sarr for 12m must be one of Palace’s best ever signings. pic.twitter.com/MpiSVoW6I9

— Ed Acteson (@Ed_Acteson) February 19, 2026

Since returning from the Africa Cup of Nations, the 2021 and 2025 African champion has been in great shape, culminating in a goal in the first leg of the Conference League playoff against Bosnian side HŠK Zrinjski Mostar in a 1-1 draw last Thursday.

In a press conference on Friday, Oliver Glasner emphasized the importance of the former Stade Rennais, Watford and Olympique Marseille player.

Ismaila Sarr has 80 international games for Senegal

“I think Ismaïla is having a fantastic season.He is currently our top scorer in all competitions. He has scored three goals in the last four matches and now has 11 goals this season.

“He has never had such a season at any top-flight club (Sarr scored 12 goals in 47 matches for Palace last season), even after missing many matches due to the Africa Cup of Nations.

“Ismaila is very important for us: his game is excellent, he always finds himself in a scoring position,” Glasner praised.

He played five matches with one assist as Senegal romped to their second African Cup of Nations title where they defeated hosts Morocco 1-0 in a grueling 120 minutes encounter at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.

The 27-year-old forward has made 16 appearances with five goals and one assists for Crystal Palace who sit 14th with 32 points from 26 games in the English Premier League and five Conference league games with three goals.

He has made 80 international appearances for Senegal with 18 goals under his belt after playing at the U-23 level.