Friday, 10th July marked the players' first official day back, with many of Pierre Sage’s squad – including those who did not feature at the 2026 FIFA World Cup – returning to Copers Cope for the start of pre-season.
As is tradition, the day saw the players arriving in groups to undergo a range of important tests, which set the benchmarks of players’ fitness at this moment in time, and which can often be used to inform the basis for assessments made later in the season.
Among those reporting for duty was new Palace defender Óscar Mingueza, with the Spain international meeting many of his new teammates for the first time.
It's a day of hard work, but also one of introductions, reunions and plenty of smiles as preparations begin for another exciting campaign.
Check out the best photos below – and welcome to 2026/27!
