The battle for the Premier League managers of 2025 has a clear victor, though it’s not the one winning the actual or calendar year title.
Last year, Nuno Espirito Santo took the top spot but now faces potential job loss for the second time in 2025. The pace of change is swift.
10) Enzo Maresca (Chelsea)
Are we sold on him? Absolutely not. He’s not better than Pep, especially with City likely being the top team in 2025. Still, two actual trophies are hard to dispute. However, being the fifth-best in the Premier League might not justify the spending. Maresca might counter by pointing to Manchester United’s mediocrity and their higher net spend.
9) Daniel Farke (Leeds United)
Just a month ago, Farke seemed at risk of losing his position, but now his team is unbeaten in five. Farke has altered tactics and personnel, dramatically improving a club’s prospects, currently ahead of the point-per-game threshold necessary for a promoted team, vital to evade relegation and earn a spot on this list.
8) Keith Andrews (Brentford)
Common belief suggested that losing key players like Christian Norgaard and manager Thomas Frank would hinder Brentford, but we were mistaken. Andrews has effectively taken the reins, maintaining 2024’s success without missing a beat, despite significant player losses. His seamless adjustments have been impressive.
7) David Moyes (Everton)
While not flashy, only three teams conceded fewer goals in 2025 than Everton. They have settled into mid-table security with minimal drama in their new stadium. A strong finish to the season and key summer signings hint at an optimistic outlook after previously struggling in 2024.
6) Eddie Howe (Newcastle)
Typically, winning a trophy guarantees a spot on this list, but we made an exception for Ange Postecoglou. However, Howe, despite a tough start to 2025/26, benefited from a successful previous season that earned him some leeway. Despite the rocky start this year, Howe’s team ranked marginally lower than last season, maintaining momentum.
5) Mikel Arteta (Arsenal)
Arteta rises a spot from the previous year despite Arsenal’s calendar year title win (which was less impressive this time). The focus shifted from individual managers to Arsenal’s persistent push for trophies, showcasing their resilience and capability, making next year’s predictions intriguing.
4) Oliver Glasner (Crystal Palace)
Palace began 2025 in a precarious 15th place but ended up mid-table due to the demands of European competition following an FA Cup victory. Throughout the year, they have been a competitive force, showcasing impressive development under Glasner’s guidance, likely leading to higher-profile opportunities soon.
3) Arne Slot (Liverpool)
Slot clinched the Premier League title, a significant achievement, but Liverpool’s performance since has left much to be desired. Ending the year as the fourth-best team raises questions about future progress after a heavy summer investment, though Slot’s debut season was commendable.
2) Regis Le Bris (Sunderland)
Starting 2025 seven points behind Leeds in the Championship, Sunderland now sits eight points ahead in the Premier League. Le Bris has built a cohesive squad that performed exceptionally well, securing a memorable victory over Newcastle, solidifying his status as a club hero.
1) Unai Emery (Aston Villa)
Villa began the year in 9th but is now in a legitimate title race, even after a tough match against Arsenal. Emery’s ability to transform and motivate a largely unchanged squad is remarkable, and his managerial skills have clearly translated into outstanding results, making him the top manager of 2025.
