…..Nine of 20 clubs begin season under new leadership as campaign starts August 21
The 2026/27 English Premier League season will begin with a record nine of the 20 clubs starting under new management, the highest number of pre-season appointments in the competition’s history.
Newcastle United’s appointment of Matthias Jaissle completed the record tally following the departure of Eddie Howe. The 38-year-old German coach takes charge at St James’ Park after a successful spell with Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli, where he guided the team to major silverware. His move to England offers an opportunity to build on Newcastle’s recent growth and establish a distinct managerial style.
The extensive changes make the upcoming campaign one of the most unpredictable in recent league history, with several established clubs entering the season under fresh guidance.
The new campaign officially gets underway on Friday, August 21, when reigning champions Arsenal welcome newly promoted Coventry City to the Emirates Stadium.
Across the league, the 20 clubs have finalized their managerial setups ahead of the opening weekend.
Mikel Arteta continues at Arsenal, Unai Emery remains at Aston Villa, Marco Rose takes over at Bournemouth, Keith Andrews leads Brentford, and Fabian Hürzeler stays in charge at Brighton & Hove Albion.
Chelsea begin a new era under Xabi Alonso, while Frank Lampard leads promoted Coventry City, Pierre Sage manages Crystal Palace, David Moyes continues at Everton, and Álvaro Arbeloa takes charge at Fulham.
Sergej Jakirović leads promoted Hull City, Gary O’Neil stays at Ipswich Town, Daniel Farke remains at Leeds United, Andoni Iraola takes over at Liverpool, and Enzo Maresca takes charge at Manchester City.
Michael Carrick continues at Manchester United, Matthias Jaissle steps in at Newcastle United, Oliver Glasner remains at Nottingham Forest, Régis Le Bris stays at Sunderland, and Roberto De Zerbi leads Tottenham Hotspur.
