Premier League’s five-man shortlist for “Manager of the Season”

Mikel Arteta (Arsenal)

P36 W26 D5 L5 GF88 GA28 GD+60

Mikel Arteta has really transformed Arsenal into a formidable force! Having both the best attacking and defensive records is quite an achievement, showing a well-balanced and cohesive team. Scoring 88 goals and conceding only 28 is impressive, indicating not only offensive prowess but also a solid defense. It must be exciting times for Arsenal fans, especially after a 20-year wait for the Premier League title. Arteta’s leadership seems to be making a significant impact on the team’s performance. 

Unai Emery (Aston Villa)

P36 W20 D7 L9 GF73 GA53 GD+20

Unai Emery’s tenure at Aston Villa seems to be marked by impressive progress. Following their UEFA Europa Conference League qualification in the previous season, leading the team towards Champions League qualification is a significant achievement. Masterminding victories against top teams like Manchester City and Arsenal demonstrate Emery’s tactical prowess and the team’s ability to compete with the best. Doing a double over the league leaders, Arsenal, adds an extra layer of accomplishment, showcasing Villa’s ability to perform consistently at a high level under Emery’s guidance. It’s undoubtedly an exciting time for Aston Villa and their fans as they aim for a place among Europe’s elite clubs.

Pep Guardiola (Man City)

P35 W25 D7 L3 GF87 GA33 GD+54

Pep Guardiola is continuing his impressive managerial legacy at Manchester City. Winning the Barclays Manager of the Season award last year and being a four-time recipient already speaks volumes about his coaching abilities. If City can secure three wins from their final three matches, they’ll achieve a historic milestone by becoming the first team to win the Premier League title in four consecutive seasons. This achievement would solidify Guardiola’s reputation as one of the greatest football managers of all time and further establish Manchester City as a dominant force in English football. It’s a testament to Guardiola’s tactical acumen and the team’s consistent performance over the years.

Andoni Iraola (AFC Bournemouth)

P36 W13 D9 L14 GF52 GA63 GD-11

Andoni Iraola’s first season in the Premier League with AFC Bournemouth has been a resounding success! Jumping from 15th to 10th place is a notable improvement and speaks volumes about Iraola’s impact on the team. Implementing exciting tactics that have not only led to better results but also made the Cherries a team to watch is impressive. It’s always exciting to see a new manager bring fresh ideas and strategies to a club, especially when it translates into tangible success on the pitch. Bournemouth fans must be thrilled with the team’s progress under Iraola’s guidance.

Jurgen Klopp (Liverpool)

P36 W23 D9 L4 GF81 GA38 GD+43

Jurgen Klopp’s tenure at Liverpool has indeed been memorable, and his final season is no exception. Despite facing numerous injuries, Klopp has managed to keep Liverpool in the title race, showcasing his ability to adapt and motivate his squad effectively. Achieving remarkable results like the 4-3 win over Fulham and the late 2-1 victory against Newcastle United, even with a player disadvantage, demonstrates Klopp’s tactical prowess and the team’s resilience under pressure. Klopp’s impact on Liverpool’s success over the years has been immense, and it’s clear that he’s leaving behind a legacy of excellence.

Written by Marc Strydom.