Despite a series of disappointing spells for several clubs and the precarious positions of a handful of managers, there have been no managerial dismissals in the Premier League this season so far. Even Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis is showing rare patience with Oliver Glasner, who has secured just one win in six matches.
Taking advantage of this lull, BritBall.net's keen observer Andrey Dyumin has put together an ironic forecast on who might be the next manager for each of the 20 clubs in the elite division of England.
Big hitters: Diego Simeone, Antonio Conte and a surprising choice in Kyle Walker
Arsenal – Diego Simeone: Mikel Arteta has been at the helm for nearly seven years, making him one of the longest-serving managers in English football. The Gunners have a history of sticking with their managers, having seen just three permanent appointments in the last 30 years. Recently, they’ve moved away from the romantic play synonymous with Wenger to a more pragmatic, high-pressing approach, making Simeone, the charismatic leader of Atletico, a perfect fit for their current direction.
Manchester United – Antonio Conte: The Red Devils desperately need a figure capable of shaking things up, someone who can voice the frustrations of the fans directly to the hierarchy. The likely scenario? A dazzling start in the first season followed by explosive conflicts in the second. Should they choose to bring in someone who understands the club's traditions, Kieran McKenna could also be in the frame.
Manchester City – Kyle Walker: With the financial irregularities clouding the club's future, Walker emerges as a potential successor, currently working on his coaching badges at Burnley. His experience under both meticulous tactician Pep Guardiola and the charismatic Neil Warnock could serve him well in navigating the choppy waters ahead.
Liverpool – Steven Gerrard: Andoni Iraola is doing decent work, but if the Reds panic over a missed opportunity with Xabi Alonso, they may hastily bring back their club legend amid concern that other teams like Coventry might swoop in.
Chelsea – Hugo Oliveira: Following a turbulent period of managerial changes, employing the current Strasbourg manager seems a logical step. His extensive knowledge of English football from his time with Marco Silva could provide much-needed stability.
Tottenham – Fabian Hurtseler: The young boss of Brighton is likely to catch the eye of Spurs' hierarchy, though such an association may prove another tough test for the German's nerves.
London shuffles and relegation saviours
Fulham – Thomas Frank: Should Alvaro Arbeloa falter, the Danish tactician is poised to step in during the November break, bettering the squad for the crucial derby matches.
Aston Villa – Ruben Amorim: Unai Emery could leave the Villans on a high, requiring an esteemed tactician with a tarnished reputation at a top English club to fill the void.
Brighton – Carlos Cuesta: The Seagulls have a penchant for investing in young talent. The 31-year-old Spaniard, who led Parma at the age of 29 and learned under Arteta, seems the ideal continuation of their club philosophy.
Brentford – Stephen Rice: The Bees are likely to opt for an internal candidate, promoting their current standards coach should Keith Andrews move up the ladder.
Crystal Palace – Vitor Pereira: The struggles in defence may push the Eagles to appoint an experienced crisis manager, someone who has saved teams like Wolverhampton and Nottingham Forest from relegation.
Everton – Roberto Martinez: After a decade of stability under David Moyes, the club may see history repeat itself in a familiar cycle.
Ipswich Town – Gareth Southgate: With Gary O'Neil keeping the club in the elite, he might move on, prompting Ipswich to turn to a coach with history in the club's legacy.
Leeds United – Julian Nagelsmann: Riding a wave of progress, the Yorkshire club may desire a major name from the pool of top coaches available.
Newcastle United – Eddie Howe: In the event of a split with Matthias Jaissle, the Magpies may simply bring back the dependable Howe.
Nottingham Forest – Julen Lopetegui: Marinakis' penchant for changing coaches means they will require someone with Premier League experience.
Sunderland – Sean Dyche: The classic British defensive approach may be called upon in case of a second-season crisis.
Bournemouth – Martin Demichelis: His experience in Spain and the German system could help maintain the philosophy established by Iraola and Rose.
Hull City – Besnik Hasi: The club seems set to continue its successful tradition of hiring coaches from the Turkish league.
Coventry City – Steven Gerrard: A romantic narrative for an ambitious club.