Premier League sack race: Which managers are on the brink in 2025/26?

October 28, 2025 Oliver Obel

A new Premier League season always brings drama, pressure, and uncertainty — especially for the men in the dugout. No matter how secure a manager might seem, results can change everything in a heartbeat. From title contenders to relegation fighters, every boss knows the sack race never really stops. Here’s how every Premier League manager ranks in terms of job security for the 2025/26 season — starting from the safest seat in the house.

20. Mikel Arteta – Arsenal

Despite another season without a Premier League title, Mikel Arteta remains one of the safest managers in England. Arsenal finished second yet again, showing consistent progress under his leadership. Injuries to key players like Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz disrupted their campaign, but Arteta’s tactical vision continues to impress. The board and fans remain behind him as the Gunners push to finally turn potential into silverware.

19. Pep Guardiola – Manchester City

It’s almost unthinkable to picture Manchester City without Pep Guardiola, even after a rare dip in form. The Cityzens endured a tough campaign following Rodri’s long-term injury and finished third, ending their four-year title streak. Yet, Guardiola’s recent contract extension until 2027 underlines the club’s faith in him. With a refreshed squad and new energy, the legendary coach looks determined to restore City to their dominant best.

18. Andoni Iraola – Bournemouth

Andoni Iraola has transformed Bournemouth into a fearless, attacking side capable of challenging the elite. After replacing Gary O’Neil, the Spaniard silenced critics by leading the Cherries to a top-10 finish and some huge scalps along the way. His tactical intelligence and man-management have made him one of Europe’s most admired young coaches. The only real threat to his job may come from bigger clubs looking to lure him away.

17. Regis Le Bris – Sunderland

RÉGIS LE BRIS — Regis Le Bris / Photo: Sunderland AFC

Sunderland’s bold appointment of Regis Le Bris has paid off spectacularly. The Frenchman guided the Black Cats back to the Premier League after seven years away and has them punching above their weight. His mix of youth development and tactical adaptability has made Sunderland one of the season’s surprise packages. Le Bris has earned the trust of the board and fans alike, making him one of the league’s safest managers.

16. Oliver Glasner – Crystal Palace

Oliver Glasner became a hero at Crystal Palace after leading the Eagles to their first-ever FA Cup triumph last season. His tactical bravery and attacking philosophy have completely revitalized the club. Even after losing star man Eberechi Eze, Glasner’s side went 19 games unbeaten at one point, proving their resilience. Palace finally look like a team ready to challenge for more than just mid-table stability.

15. Thomas Frank – Tottenham Hotspur

Thomas Frank’s move from Brentford to Tottenham raised eyebrows, but the Danish tactician has settled in quickly. Taking over a struggling Spurs side that finished 17th last season, Frank has restored belief and attacking flair. He’s won over a skeptical fanbase with strong results and smart signings. Though there’s pressure to deliver consistency, his calm leadership has brought much-needed stability to North London.

14. Enzo Maresca – Chelsea

At Chelsea, patience remains a luxury few managers enjoy — but Enzo Maresca has done enough to earn some breathing room. After guiding the Blues to a Conference League title and FIFA Club World Cup glory, he’s shown he can deliver trophies. Still, the club’s turbulent ownership and massive spending keep expectations sky-high. Maresca’s challenge is to maintain harmony and prove he’s the long-term solution at Stamford Bridge.

13. David Moyes – Everton

David Moyes’ return to Everton has injected new life into the blue half of Merseyside. After a disastrous spell under Sean Dyche, the Scot steered the club away from trouble and back to mid-table safety. The arrival of new owners has helped stabilize the atmosphere, and Moyes’ experience has been key. Fans are once again optimistic, and the Toffees are beginning to dream of European nights at Goodison Park.

12. Arne Slot – Liverpool

Arne Slot’s debut season at Liverpool couldn’t have gone much better, with a Premier League title to his name. However, a recent dip in form — four straight league losses — has reminded everyone how quickly fortunes can turn. The Dutchman’s attacking football and composed demeanor have earned widespread respect, but expectations at Anfield are relentless. Slot remains safe for now, though he’ll be aware of how fine the margins can be.

11. Eddie Howe – Newcastle United

Eddie Howe’s achievements with Newcastle have cemented him as a club legend. Delivering the Carabao Cup and Champions League qualification has silenced any doubters about his ability to lead a big club. Backed by Saudi investment, Howe has built a competitive, united squad ready to challenge for major honors. Unless results dramatically collapse, his job appears completely secure.

10. Sean Dyche – Nottingham Forest

Sean Dyche’s move to Nottingham Forest felt like destiny fulfilled, given his playing ties to the club. The fiery manager has made an instant impact, instilling discipline and structure while reviving the fanbase’s belief. Early wins in Europe and the Premier League suggest he’s steering the club in the right direction. Forest finally look like a team capable of long-term stability under his command.

9. Fabian Hurzeler – Brighton & Hove Albion

At just 31 years old, Fabian Hurzeler is already rewriting Premier League history as its youngest permanent manager. His debut season saw Brighton finish eighth, continuing their rise as one of England’s most progressive clubs. Despite a heavy defeat early in the campaign, his side bounced back with character and resilience. Hurzeler’s modern tactics and fearlessness mark him as a coach with a bright future.

8. Ruben Amorim – Manchester United

Ruben Amorim’s time at Manchester United has been turbulent, to say the least. After the club’s worst-ever league finish, pressure has mounted, but the Portuguese coach continues to fight back. Wins over Sunderland and Liverpool have eased the tension slightly and hinted at progress. Still, with United’s fanbase and ownership expecting instant success, Amorim knows results must keep improving fast.

7. Unai Emery – Aston Villa

Unai Emery has rebuilt his Premier League reputation in remarkable fashion. Leading Aston Villa back into Europe has re-established the club as a serious force under his meticulous guidance. Yet inconsistency and PSR worries have clouded what should be a positive picture. If Villa fall too far from European contention, Emery could find himself under scrutiny again despite his impressive work.

6. Keith Andrews – Brentford

When Thomas Frank left for Spurs, few expected Brentford to hand the reins to his assistant, Keith Andrews. The rookie manager has surprised many with his tactical organization and fearless approach. His side has shown promise, even after losing key players like Bryan Mbeumo and Christian Norgaard. The jury’s still out, but a few big results have bought him valuable time.

5. Marco Silva – Fulham

Marco Silva remains one of the Premier League’s most underrated managers. He’s kept Fulham comfortably mid-table despite losing stars year after year. The Portuguese tactician continues to get the best out of his squad, but with his contract running down, speculation is growing. Fulham’s board would be wise to secure his future before uncertainty starts affecting results.

4. Nuno Espirito Santo – West Ham United

Nuno Espírito Santo — Christian Bertrand / Shutterstock.com

Nuno Espirito Santo’s start at West Ham has been anything but smooth. Brought in after Graham Potter’s short-lived stint, the Portuguese boss has struggled to deliver consistency. With West Ham hovering near the bottom, pressure is already mounting. Nuno’s experience gives him a fighting chance, but the club’s impatient hierarchy could act quickly if results don’t improve.

3. Daniel Farke – Leeds United

Promotion back to the Premier League should have made Daniel Farke a hero, yet his job security remains fragile. The Leeds board reportedly explored replacements even before the season began, raising doubts about their faith in him. With survival the only priority, Farke will need to prove he can handle top-flight pressure. For now, the German coach remains on borrowed time.

2. Scott Parker – Burnley

Scott Parker faces an uphill battle to keep Burnley in the Premier League. Despite tightening their defense, the Clarets lack the attacking quality needed to stay afloat. Losing key players like James Trafford hasn’t helped, leaving Parker with a monumental challenge. If results don’t improve quickly, his time at Turf Moor could be short-lived.

1. Vitor Pereira – Wolverhampton Wanderers

Vitor Pereira sits at the top of the sack list after a miserable start to the season. Despite keeping Wolves up last term, his side has managed just two points from eight games. The loss of key players has left him exposed, and frustration is growing among fans. Unless results turn around soon, his second season in England might not last much longer.