Currently, the Premier League has just two English managers, marking an all-time low. Sean Dyche (Everton) and Eddie Howe (Newcastle) are the only domestic representatives.
This is a stark contrast to the league’s early years, where English and British managers dominated. So, what’s behind the decline, and how does this compare to other countries?
A Declining Trend in English Managers
The number of English managers in the Premier League has fluctuated over the years but shows a downward trend. For instance:
- In the inaugural 1992-93 season, there was just one non-British manager.
- By contrast, the current 2024-25 season includes only five British managers, including caretakers.
- In 2022-23, there were 15 British managers, but the figure has since plummeted.
The rise of foreign managers, supported by international ownership, has increasingly marginalized domestic talent. Today, the Premier League features five Spanish and four Portuguese managers, outnumbering the British contingent.
How Do English Managers Compare to Other Leagues?
The Premier League’s 10% domestic manager rate is an outlier compared to other top European leagues:
- Serie A: 80% of managers are Italian.
- La Liga: 70% are Spanish.
- Bundesliga and Ligue 1: Each has a 50/50 split between domestic and foreign managers.
Why Are Foreign Managers Favored?
Foreign managers often bring innovative tactics and international appeal. Former EFL boss Michael Appleton notes the competitive nature of the Premier League makes it hard for domestic coaches to break through:
“Unless you have significant financial backing, you’re fighting to stay in the league, and recognition doesn’t come as easily in the EFL as it does in foreign leagues.”
Additionally, foreign ownership in the Premier League often leans toward hiring managers from abroad. Only five of the 20 Premier League clubs are English-owned, compared to 15 in Spain and 10 in Italy.
What Can English Coaches Learn?
One barrier for English managers is self-promotion. Appleton recalls advice from Portuguese manager Carlos Carvalhal:
“He told me, ‘You don’t promote yourselves enough. You need to walk into a room and tell everyone how good you are.'”
This contrasts with the modest approach many British managers take, which may hinder opportunities abroad. Currently, the only English managers working in Europe’s top leagues are Liam Rosenior (Strasbourg) and Will Still (Lens).
How Does This Impact Success?
No English manager has won the Premier League title since its inception in 1992.
- The last English top-flight champion was Howard Wilkinson with Leeds in 1991-92.
- Only Harry Redknapp (2008 FA Cup) and Steve McClaren (2010 Dutch title) have won significant trophies in the last 15 years.
By contrast, domestic managers dominate in other leagues:
- Serie A: Only three non-Italians have won since 1992.
- Bundesliga: 24 titles have been won by Germans in the same period.
- Ligue 1: 23 of the last 32 champions have been French.
The Future for English Managers
The Premier League’s global appeal and foreign ownership have created an environment where English managers struggle to compete. However, there’s room for growth if domestic coaches embrace opportunities abroad, refine their branding, and adapt to modern football’s demands.
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