The English Premier League is one of the most competitive football leagues in the world, and the pressure on managers to deliver results is relentless.
Over the past two seasons, nine managers have been dismissed as clubs struggled with poor performances, fan expectations, and the looming threat of relegation.
These dismissals highlight the unforgiving nature of top-flight football, where patience is often in short supply.
Here’s a detailed look at the managers who were relieved of their duties:
Erik ten Hag – Manchester United
Erik ten Hag was sacked on 28 October 2024 following a 2–1 loss to West Ham United. At the time, Manchester United were 14th in the league table, prompting the club to make a swift managerial change in hopes of regaining form.
Steve Cooper – Leicester City
Steve Cooper was dismissed on 24 November 2024 after securing only two wins in 12 games. Leicester City hovered just above the relegation zone, and the board opted for a new manager to try to steer the club to safety.
Gary O’Neil – Wolverhampton Wanderers
Gary O’Neil parted ways with Wolves on 15 December 2024 following a run of poor results, including a 2–1 home defeat to Ipswich Town. The club sought a new direction as they battled to avoid relegation.
Russell Martin – Southampton F.C.
Russell Martin was relieved of his duties on 15 December 2024 after a heavy 5–0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur. Southampton had managed only one win in 16 matches, forcing the club to act decisively.
Julen Lopetegui – West Ham United
Julen Lopetegui was sacked on 8 January 2025 after a disappointing start to the season, despite significant investment in the squad over the summer. West Ham sought fresh leadership to revive their campaign.
Sean Dyche – Everton F.C.
Sean Dyche left Everton on 9 January 2025 as the club struggled near the bottom of the table. Everton aimed to bring in new management to avoid slipping further into the relegation zone.
Nuno Espírito Santo – Nottingham Forest
Nuno Espírito Santo was dismissed on 9 September 2025 following a poor start to the season and tensions with club ownership. Nottingham Forest acted early in the hope of stabilising their league position.
Graham Potter – West Ham United
Graham Potter was sacked on 27 September 2025 after a series of disappointing performances. West Ham looked for new managerial leadership to address their struggles and improve results.
Ange Postecoglou – Nottingham Forest
Ange Postecoglou was relieved of his duties on 18 October 2025, only 39 days after taking charge. His brief tenure highlights the relentless pressure on Premier League managers, especially at clubs fighting to avoid relegation.