The English Premier League set a historic record even before the first whistle, with nine clubs kicking off their campaigns with new managers. Following a thrilling opening weekend, BBC Sport's Phil McNulty assessed the debut matches of each of the new specialists.
Marco Rose (Bournemouth) The German boss, who replaced Andoni Iraola, was just six minutes away from an unexpected victory against Manchester City. However, the Cherries let slip their lead due to two late goals: Marc Guehi was left unmarked at a corner, and in the dying seconds, Josko Gvardiol snatched the win for the visitors. Despite the disappointing defeat, Rose demonstrated that he has a solid foundation to work with, having guided the team to a sixth-place finish last season.
Xabi Alonso (Chelsea) A vivid but slightly contentious start for Alonso as the Blues clinched a 3-2 victory at Craven Cottage. His attacking trio of Cole Palmer, Joao Pedro and new signing Morgan Rogers, purchased for £117 million, showcased brilliant chemistry by each getting on the scoresheet. Tactically, Alonso set up a three-man defence that allowed Reece James to float between midfield and defence. However, the main concern for the Spaniard is his goalkeeper situation, as Robert Sanchez made crucial errors leading to both goals conceded.
Pierre Sage (Crystal Palace) The French manager, who enjoyed success at Lens, faced a setback against Everton despite the Eagles hitting the woodwork twice and Jean-Philippe Mateta missing golden opportunities. Adding to the woes is a contract dispute surrounding Mateta, compounded by a thin squad ahead of a tough home clash against Manchester City.
Alvaro Arbeloa (Fulham) Following Marco Silva’s departure, the Spaniard saw his side concede in just the first minute of their derby. Nevertheless, he was pleased to witness a debut goal from young Gonzalo Garcia, while his new signing from Real Madrid, Cesar Palacios, had a more challenging time. The key attacking asset and hope for Arbeloa is the promising 19-year-old Joshua King.
Gary O’Neil (Ipswich Town) With a staggering £150 million transfer budget and 12 new signings, O’Neil secured a convincing victory over Sunderland. The pairing of Julio Enciso and Brazilian striker Emerson produced a swift goal, showcasing the strength of the new squad.
Andoni Iraola (Liverpool) Iraola was salvaged from defeat by a penalty from Dominik Szoboszlai in the 99th minute of a thrilling draw with Newcastle United (2-2). The match exposed lingering issues in midfield as the Merseysiders were vulnerable to counter-attacks that led to goals from Anthony Elanga and the pairing of Yoane Wissa with Joe Willock. Amid interest in wingers Bradley Barcola and Yankube Minta, the lack of a specialist defensive midfielder has created significant gaps, and marquee signings Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz, who cost a combined £241 million, failed to make an impact.
Enzo Maresca (Manchester City) Following a heavy defeat to Arsenal in the Community Shield, Guardiola's successor Maresca eked out a gritty victory over Bournemouth. City's play featured spells of sterile possession with little threat, while an interesting tactical move was deploying Marc Guehi in midfield.
Matthias Jaissle (Newcastle United) The German manager was mere seconds away from a victory over Liverpool. Despite selling Bruno Guimaraes, Sandro Tonali, and Anthony Gordon, Jaissle’s team showcased great effort, high pressing, and an eye-catching attacking style.
Oliver Glasner (Nottingham Forest) A disappointing start for the Austrian, as his side fell 0-1 at home to Leeds United. Glasner fielded a team without summer signings, reminding everyone that he can’t turn the squad into a 1970s Real Madrid overnight. However, the club’s demanding hierarchy, led by Evangelos Marinakis, is expecting quick victories and the signing of Liam Delap from Chelsea.
