2nd Jun 2024 • Written by CounterPressers

How Maxence Lacroix fits into Glasner's Crystal Palace

Who is Maxence Lacroix?

Wolfsburg defender Maxence Lacroix has been extensively linked with a move to Crystal Palace this summer, and a reunion with former manager Oliver Glasner. Previously scouted by top European clubs such as AC Milan, Liverpool, and Paris Saint-Germain, the 24-year-old defender is a talented centre-back with significant potential.

With Marc Guehi's future uncertain, Lacroix could be Palace's next starting centre-back - but how could he fit in at Selhurst Park?

Lacroix’s Career So Far

Starting his career at FC Sochaux-Montbéliard II as a youth player, Lacroix was regularly exposed to minutes in Championnat National 2, the fourth tier of the French football league system. After 2 years, he was promoted to FC Sochaux-Montbéliard’s first team, where he gained experience in the French third tier, Championnat National. 

When Oliver Glasner arrived at VfL Wolfsburg in 2019, he made Lacroix his second signing, with the club forking out over €5 million for his services. 

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In the 2021/22 season, after their 4th place finish in the previous season, Wolfsburg were competing in the UEFA Champions League. Despite finishing bottom of their group, the Frenchman started every minute for the German side, gaining invaluable experience against top opposition.

Since joining Wolfsburg in 2020, Lacroix has been an ever-present figure for the side. He has racked up 129 appearances in this time, making him an experienced and mature defender for his age. In addition, despite playing so many minutes at such a young age, Lacroix has only missed five matches in four years. 

How does Maxence Lacroix fit at Crystal Palace

Unlike at Eintracht Frankfurt and Crystal Palace, during his time at Wolfsburg, Glasner opted for a 4-2-3-1 shape, with Lacroix playing on the right of a centre-back pairing. In Glaser’s current 3-4-3 shape, Lacroix would slot in seamlessly on the right of Palace’s back-three in place of Nathaniel Clyne. Although Clyne has been exceptional in this position since the Austrian has arrived, the Frenchman would be an obvious upgrade.

Lacroix possesses immense quality on the ball with an outrageous passing range. One of Lacroix greatest strengths is his ability to effectively progress the ball, often playing penetrative passes between the lines. 

Averaging 3 progressive passes per 90, Lacroix would be invaluable when Crystal Palace build-up from their usual 3-2 shape - helping to efficiently progress the ball into the feet of the talented Adam Wharton. 

Furthermore, as we have seen under Glasner, there can often be an emphasis placed on the defenders to play vertically towards the imperious Jean-Phillipe Mateta to beat the press. Lacroix’s long pass (30+ yard passes) completion rate of 70% will be effective in helping to achieve this.

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One man in particular who would benefit with the introduction of Maxence Lacroix  into the back-three, would be Daniel Munoz. Unlike Clyne, Lacroix very rarely carries the ball up the pitch and this would allow the flying Colombian wing-back more freedom to carry the ball forward with Lacroix to cover and protect him. 

However, as Munoz has the licence to push forward into attacking positions, space is often left in wide defensive areas. One of Lacroix’s weaknesses is defending in wide areas when isolated one-on-one during defensive transitions. 

Unlike Clyne who excels in these scenarios having played at right-back for many years, the Frenchman is uncomfortable in these positions and often struggles with his decision-making when defending these scenarios. At times, the young central defender will be too aggressive, mistiming his challenge and allowing the opponent to skip past him. 

However, under Glasner, he is likely to improve this side of his game. The Austrian has a track record of improving players’ individual output and could help Lacroix to improve his decision-making. Furthermore, it is important to remember that Lacroix is still a young defender, who will improve naturally with age and experience.

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According to the Bundesliga’s official stats for the 2023/24 season, Lacroix was the 5th fastest player in the league, clocking a top speed of 36.2km/h. In comparison, this would put the Frenchman as one of the fastest players in the Premier League and the fastest in the Crystal Palace squad. This explosive speed is an incredible tool to have, allowing him to get back quickly and sweep up any danger. 

Considerable potential and a statement of intent

Maxence Lacroix would be a strong signing and statement of intent from Crystal Palace. Being such an experienced and cultured defender at the age of just 24, the Frenchman could provide the basis for a team that continues to progress and challenge for European football and potentially silverware. 

Lacroix is a quality defender who could be at the heart of Palace’s defence for many years to come. The Frenchman would not look out of place in European competition and could help the Eagles reach this level.

Thumbnail Image: Martin Rose/Getty Images

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