icon Clinton Morrison believes that Patrick Vieira is destined to manage a top Premier League club.
Vieira was appointed to his first managerial job in the Premier League last summer when he took charge of Palace and performed far better than anyone had expected.
The Eagles finished 12th in the table and reached the semi-finals, with Vieira quickly and successfully transforming his team from the cautious, counter-attacking side that they were under , to an attack-minded, energetic one.
He also showed great acumen in the transfer market, and an ability to develop young talents, as seen by the likes of Marc Guehi, Michael Olise and Conor Gallagher.
Only a few months into his stay at Selhurst Park, the Arsenal legend was being tipped for a move to a bigger club, and Morrison believes it will only be a matter of time before they come calling for the French World Cup winner.
‘No disrespect to Palace, it is my team, I was there nine-and-a-half years, but there will be big teams looking at Patrick Vieira,’ the former striker told the .
‘He’s done an outstanding job. The style of play, to evolve that quickly, was sensational. He got the best out of players.
‘He’s one of the best midfielders the Premier League has ever seen, and I think he will be one of the best managers.
‘The [Palace] fans shouldn’t worry, they should just enjoy him while he’s here. I don’t think he’ll leave anyway. For now, I still think he’s learning and growing with this team, and hopefully they can pick up a trophy this season.’
As for where Vieira could go, given his allegiances to Arsenal and Manchester City, the other ‘big-six’ clubs are not likely options, but the Gunners and the Citizens will no doubt be keeping tabs on him.
While Mikel Arteta has greatly improved things at the Emirates, failure to qualify for the Champions League next season will leave question marks over his future, while Pep Guardiola’s has hinted, he will leave the Etihad when his contract expires next summer.
Vieira’s contract with Palace runs until 2024, and for now he is focused on improving upon the last campaign and has already made some big signings in the form of Sam Johnstone, Cheick Doucoure and Chris Richards.
‘I could be wrong but I’m being optimistic. I’m going to go top 10,’ said Morrison, adding his own predictions.
‘The keys will be keeping everyone fit, keeping the big players fit, adding a few more additions to the squad, and starting the season well—that’s the most important thing. You don’t want to be playing catch-up.’
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