Managerial pressure across Europe’s top leagues has continued to intensify in 2026, with several high-profile clubs already making changes in the dugout. Poor runs of form, unmet expectations, and growing fan frustration have forced boards into swift and decisive action.

Tottenham Hotspur became the latest club to make a managerial change, bringing an end to Thomas Frank’s tenure after a difficult spell in charge.

Here’s a look at five managers who have been sacked in 2026 so far:

1. Thomas Frank – Tottenham Hotspur

Tottenham Hotspur parted ways with Thomas Frank after a turbulent run of results that saw the club just five points above the Premier League relegation zone. Despite arriving with a reputation for progressive football and tactical intelligence, Frank struggled to deliver consistency.

2. Enzo Maresca – Chelsea

Chelsea sacked Enzo Maresca on January 1, 2026, despite the Italian tactician’s success in winning the Europa Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup with the club. The departure came after a run of one win in seven league games and reports of tensions with the club’s hierarchy.

3. Ruben Amorim – Manchester United

Manchester United decided to sack Portuguese boss Ruben Amorim on January 5, 2026, after disciplinary disputes with the club’s recruitment department and inconsistent results, leaving the Red Devils sixth in the Premier League at the time. Although Amorim arrived with a strong reputation from his success in Portugal, he found it difficult to impose his philosophy at Old Trafford. Poor results in key fixtures and falling behind rivals in the league standings sealed his fate.

4. Sean Dyche – Nottingham Forest

Sean Dyche’s tenure at Nottingham Forest ended amid growing fears of relegation. Known for his disciplined and pragmatic style, Dyche was expected to bring defensive solidity and survival experience. However, a prolonged winless run and struggles to generate attacking momentum left Forest in a precarious position, prompting the club to seek a fresh approach.

5. Xabi Alonso – Real Madrid

Perhaps the most high-profile departure of the year, Xabi Alonso’s exit from Real Madrid sent shockwaves through European football. Despite flashes of tactical brilliance and moments of promise, his departure followed a mixed run of results, with the team sitting second in La Liga and showing inconsistency in Europe, leading the club to promote reserve team coach Álvaro Arbeloa as his replacement. (The Nation)

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