As the managerial revolving door looks to claim its first victim, let’s look at which coaches should be worried.
Clubs will have a chance to take stock of their start to the campaign and no doubt there will be some itchy fingers ready to pull the trigger.
Erik ten Hag
The Manchester United boss is by far and away the bookies’ favourite to go.
The Dutchman’s contract was extended by a year this past summer despite reports suggesting the club were looking to replace him. At the time it felt as if United were publicly settling for “second best” in the absence of a stand-out candidate.
Seemingly, this precarious situation has impacted performances this season with 3-0 losses to both Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford prompting speculation that time has run out. Graeme Bailey of GRV Media reported that Sunday’s fixture with Aston Villa could be the final straw, with former England boss Gareth Southgate the leading candidate to replace him.
Russell Martin
Newly promoted teams who start poorly are always likely contenders to look for a panic alternative – and Russell Martin of Southampton could be this year’s victim.
The Saints have struggled, earning just one point from their opening six fixtures thanks to a 1-1 draw with fellow newcomers Ipswich Town. They suffered a lacklustre start to their derby match with Bournemouth: 3-0 down at half-time, Martin was forced to make a triple substitution to stop the bleeding. In his post-match interview, he questioned his players’ desire, fight, and passion.
In a relegation fight, if you can’t motivate your players to outwork the opposition, you stand little chance of staying up. Or in Martin’s case, keeping your job.
Sean Dyche
I find critiquing Sean Dyche’s efforts at Everton very difficult. He has helped the club navigate points deductions and ownership changes extremely well and should take the credit for preventing them from suffering relegation.
However, ownership controversies endure, with the American consortium the Friedkin Group awaiting approval to confirm their purchase of the club. Once their takeover is completed, Dyche’s position could be in danger as the new leadership looks to implement their vision.
One narrative which might exacerbate the situation for Dyche is the potential return of David Moyes. The Scotsman is a free agent after his former club West Ham United opted against renewing his contract. He is an Everton legend, having managed the club for 11 years, taking them to heights they have not reached since his departure. If anyone can restore the atmosphere and belief at Goodison Park it will be Moyes.
“Old Trafford inside 20060726 1” by André Zahn is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.