Opinion: Premier League New Managers Set to Redefine Tactics | OneFootball

Premier League’s New Commanders: What to Expect from Slot, Maresca, McKenna, Martin, and Hurzeler

As the Premier League unfurls its latest chapter, a quintet of new managers are poised to make their mark on English football’s grandest stage. This season introduces fresh faces at the helm of some of the league’s most storied clubs: Arne Slot at Liverpool, Enzo Maresca at Chelsea, Russell Martin at Southampton, Kieran McKenna at Ipswich, and Fabian Hurzeler at Brighton. Each brings a unique tactical ethos and managerial style, but what exactly can fans expect from these tactical maestros?

Navigating New Waters: Arne Slot at Liverpool

Arne Slot steps into the Anfield spotlight with the daunting task of succeeding Jurgen Klopp. His arrival, costing Liverpool a hefty £9.4m in compensation to Feyenoord, is one of the high-profile managerial shifts this season. Slot, known for his elegant Dutch tactical approach, departs from Klopp’s intense “heavy metal football” to a more possession-focused 4-2-3-1 setup.

Photo: IMAGO

Liverpool midfielder Harvey Elliott shared his thoughts on the transition: “The style of play is a lot different. It’s more about in possession now,” highlighting the shift towards a more structured play style under Slot’s guidance. The adaptation to this style will be crucial, with fellow midfielder Wataru Endo noting that it remains a “challenge” and a “priority” for the team.

Enzo Maresca’s Blue Vision for Chelsea

At Chelsea, Enzo Maresca takes the reins following a triumphant stint at Leicester City. His move to Chelsea comes after a single, impactful season at Leicester, where his possession-based tactics and strategic formations steered the Foxes back to the Premier League. Maresca’s approach has been visible during Chelsea’s pre-season, employing a 4-3-3 formation that morphs into a 3-2-5 during offensive phases.

Photo: IMAGO

BBC Sport reporter Nizaar Kinsella observed, “Enzo Maresca really appears to be rolling out his identikit Leicester City plan in pre-season.” However, this tactical bravery comes with risks, as seen in pre-season matches where Chelsea’s high defensive line and risky passes sometimes led to conceded goals.

Ipswich’s Ascendant Leader: Kieran McKenna

Kieran McKenna’s meteoric rise from League One to the Premier League with Ipswich Town is a testament to his tactical acumen and leadership. Under his stewardship, Ipswich secured back-to-back promotions, an achievement anchored by an expansive brand of football and an impressive goal tally. The Northern Irishman’s commitment to Ipswich was solidified with a new four-year contract, making him one of the Premier League’s best-paid managers.

Photo by IMAGO

Former Ipswich captain Mick Mills praised McKenna’s approach: “The training ground is his domain.” This detail-oriented focus is echoed by Wales striker Kieffer Moore, who lauded McKenna’s “unbelievable” managerial skills and meticulous attention to detail.

Southampton’s Architect: Russell Martin

Russell Martin, who led Southampton to promotion via the play-offs, mirrors Maresca’s philosophy but with his unique adaptations. His tenure at Southampton has been marked by a significant unbeaten run and a dedication to possession-based football, which he believes offers the best framework for his squad’s success.

Photo: IMAGO

Reflecting on his approach, Martin stated, “I know possession won’t win you games, but it is a vehicle for us to give ourselves the best opportunity to show the best version of ourselves.” His strategic persistence with possession football will be key in Southampton’s Premier League campaign.

Brighton’s Young Innovator: Fabian Hurzeler

Fabian Hurzeler, the youngest permanent manager in Premier League history, takes charge at Brighton with a philosophy steeped in ball possession and tactical flexibility. His background with Germany’s youth teams and his role in St Pauli’s promotion campaign highlight a career that is as precocious as it is promising.

Photo: IMAGO

Matthew Karagich, a Bundesliga 2 expert, describes Hurzeler’s teams: “It is all about possessing the ball. You’re looking at a team that will try to use its pace to get behind defences and create opportunities.” This approach, coupled with Hurzeler’s vibrant sideline presence, suggests a dynamic season ahead for Brighton.

Season of Tactical Narratives

With these managerial changes, the Premier League is set for a season of intriguing tactical narratives. Whether it’s Slot’s refined Dutch principles at Liverpool, Maresca’s structured possession at Chelsea, McKenna’s detailed preparations at Ipswich, Martin’s possession ideology at Southampton, or Hurzeler’s youthful dynamism at Brighton, each manager brings a fresh strategic dimension to their respective clubs.

The unfolding season will reveal how well these tactical philosophies adapt to the rigorous demands of the Premier League, setting the stage for a campaign filled with tactical evolution and possibly, unexpected triumphs.