As the Premier League kick-off on August 16 approaches, excitement is building for the 2024/25 season. This season will feature five new managers, each bringing their own unique credentials and challenges to the league. They will face off against established figures such as Pep Guardiola and Mikel Arteta, promising an engaging and competitive season ahead.
New Managers to Watch
- Arne Slot (Liverpool): Arne Slot, a 45-year-old Dutch coach, has taken over at Liverpool following Jurgen Klopp’s departure. Slot joins Liverpool after a successful stint at Feyenoord, where he won the Eredivisie and the Dutch Cup, and led the team to the UEFA Europa Conference League final in 2022. Slot’s Premier League debut will be an away game against newly-promoted Ipswich Town on August 17.
- Enzo Maresca (Chelsea): Enzo Maresca, previously of Leicester City, has been appointed as Chelsea’s new head coach. Maresca guided Leicester City to a Championship title last season and has past experience as a player and assistant coach at Manchester City. His first Premier League match will see him face his former mentor, Pep Guardiola, when Chelsea hosts Manchester City on August 18.
- Kieran McKenna (Ipswich): At 38, Kieran McKenna has led Ipswich Town to consecutive promotions, securing their first Premier League appearance since 2002. McKenna previously worked with Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United before taking the reins at Ipswich. His first Premier League match will be against Liverpool on August 17.
- Russell Martin (Southampton): Russell Martin, who led Southampton to promotion in his debut season, will begin his Premier League tenure with an away match against Newcastle United on August 17. Martin has managed MK Dons and Swansea City and has previous Premier League experience as a player.
- Fabian Hurzeler (Brighton): Fabian Hurzeler, at 31 years and 110 days old, is set to become the youngest manager in Premier League history. He will lead Brighton & Hove Albion against Everton on August 17. Hurzeler previously guided St Pauli to promotion in Germany’s second tier.
Upcoming Fixtures and Community Shield
The Premier League season kicks off on August 16, with the Community Shield set for August 10. This year’s Community Shield will feature a Manchester derby between Premier League champions Manchester City and FA Cup winners Manchester United. The annual match, traditionally played at Wembley Stadium, serves as the traditional curtain-raiser for the new football season.
Expectations for the Season
With new tactics and strategies introduced by these managers, the 2024/25 Premier League season promises to be dynamic and competitive. Fans can look forward to a season filled with fresh approaches and intense matches as the league runs through to May.