It appears AFAS is a music venue rather than a festival. That might give more hope as they could well be referring to no standalone gigs in surrounding countries. I highly doubt a music venue in Amsterdam would have any Intel on Pulp playing Glastonbury.
That has crossed my mind before but they haven't played since 2002 and still manage to tour arenas. I could easily see them subbing the Pyramid if they returned due to the massive gap since they played. Only a few years ago, Kelly Jones was talking about headlining again.
https://www.nme.com/news/music/stereophonics-waiting-call-headline-glastonbury-2157123
The Other opener slot is shite. I'd imagine someone like Ocean Colour Scene or Travis would go down well in it. Easy songs to start the day which would go down well with the Mams and Dad's and the picnic brigade would approve. As long as its a set full of their earlier stuff.
Haven't really seen the Libertines mentioned. With an album out, they could well play. If LCD Soundsystem can play high on the Pyramid in 2024, then are the Libertines not a shout for 2nd or 3rd top? They could obviously headline other stages.
Why do people get so annoyed about the idea of someone someone they don't approve of headline the Pyramid anyway? There will be something on another stage.
They could always move Pulp up (if they are actually booked) if they were stuck. It's been years since they played a proper announced set. Don't think they will though.
20 years since Aha Shake Heartbreak. An hour secret set in Woodsies playing the full album please. Would still give 20 minutes to throw in 4 other songs.
Wishful thinking.