READER POLL: EPL MANAGER OF THE SEASON

Over the course of a nearly 10-month Premier League season, we’ve had the privilege to witness the remarkable tactics, strategies, and leadership from various managers who have left an indelible mark on the competition. Here are my top managers of the season in no particular order, each of whom has demonstrated exceptional skill and vision:

Sean Dyche (Everton)

Wins: 13, Draws: 9, Losses: 16

Dyche saved Everton from relegation in 2023. The Toffees struggled at the start of the new season, winning only one of their first seven games. After a 2-1 loss to Luton, doubts arose. Despite a 6-point (adjusted) penalty for breaking financial fair play rules, they bounced back with wins against Bournemouth, West Ham, and Crystal Palace. They finished the season strong, 14 points clear of relegation, winning four of their last six games, including a 2-0 derby victory over Liverpool that effectively ended their rivals’ title dreams.

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Oliver Glasner (Crystal Palace)

Wins: 13, Draws: 10, Losses: 15

Oliver Glasner, formerly of Eintracht Frankfurt, took over Crystal Palace in February and led them to a 3-1 win over Burnley, moving them eight points clear of relegation. Despite a winless streak in the next five matches, Palace showed improvement, culminating in a 1-0 victory against Liverpool at Anfield on April 14. The Eagles ended the season with an impressive 19 of the final 21 points, including big wins over Man United and Villa, finishing 10th — their highest-ever position. Glasner rejuvenated the team, particularly Eberechi Eze, Michael Olise and Jean-Philippe Mateta, earning him interest from Bayern Munich.

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Mauricio Pochettino (Chelsea)

Wins: 20, Draws: 6, Losses: 12

Chelsea has spent over £1 billion on new players under Todd Boehly’s ownership, but he has yet to see results. Throughout the 2023-24 season, Pochettino faced questions about his future as Chelsea struggled in the bottom half of the table. Despite the freedom to reshape the squad, big signings like Caicedo and goalkeeper Robert Sanchez struggled. However, Cole Palmer, bought from Man City for £47.5 million, proved to be the standout signing. With Palmer’s influence, the Blues improved, winning their last five games to claim sixth place and European qualification. Under Pochettino, the team now has a clear identity and should continue improving in 2024-25.

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Unai Emery (Aston Villa)

Wins: 20, Draw: 8, Losses: 10

Emery led Villa to 4th place and Champions League qualification, the Villans’ highest finish in the last 29 seasons (since 1995-96). After taking over in November of the prior season, Emery managed a respectable 7th, so most preseason pundits picked him to land about there again. Few would touted Villa to jump the likes of star-studded Chelsea and Tottenham to nick a champions League spot, so Emery might be credited as having done the most with the least.

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Jurgen Klopp (Liverpool)

Wins: 24, Draws: 10, Losses: 4

Klopp revamped Liverpool’s midfield last summer, bringing in new faces like Alex Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai and Ryan Gravenberch while parting ways with Henderson and Fabinho. Despite initial doubts, Klopp led Liverpool to a Carabao Cup win in February, raising hopes for a quadruple. However, his dreams were dashed with exits from the FA Cup and Europa League, along with key losses in the Premier League. Despite this, Liverpool finished third with 82 points, a significant improvement from the previous season. Klopp’s departure leaves a void in English football, as he not only brought success but also excitement back to Liverpool.

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Mikel Arteta (Arsenal)

Wins: 28, Draws: 5, Losses: 5

Arteta has elevated Arsenal to elite status once again, another close brush with Premier League glory as in 2022-23. A hefty investment in players like Rice and Havertz strengthened the squad beyond the growth of existing stars like Odegaard, Saliba, and Saka. Despite finishing just two points behind City this season and showing prowess against top teams, Arsenal fell short. While Arteta’s high standards propel the team forward, there’s still work to be done to secure that final step.

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Pep Guardiola (Manchester City)

Wins: 28, Draws: 7, Losses: 3

Guardiola’s success at Man City isn’t just about unlimited resources; it’s about his exceptional planning and talent spotting. Despite a sluggish start to the season and injuries to key players like De Bruyne and Haaland, City rallied when it mattered, finishing with nine consecutive wins to secure a sixth EPL title in seven seasons. The return of De Bruyne and Haaland’s partnership, Foden’s stellar performances, and the solid defense led by Dias and Rodri were crucial. While some label the Citizens as boring, Guardiola’s ability to adapt and maintain their unique style amid challenges cements his status as one of the greatest managers of his time.

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Whom do you think got the most out of his players? Please vote in the poll. Was there anyone else we should have listed? Please log in and tell us in the comments!

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2024-05-22T16:59:59Z dg43tfdfdgfd