The 2025/26 season of the Premier League continues to wind down with attention shifting to individual honours, and the league has now officially released its shortlist for the Manager of the Season award.
The six-man list highlights a campaign shaped by tactical evolution, surprise breakthroughs, and renewed title battles across England’s top flight.
Guardiola and Arteta headline the list
Pep Guardiola leads the nominations once again after steering Manchester City through another demanding title challenge, as he targets a sixth Manager of the Season crown.
Close behind is Mikel Arteta, who has kept Arsenal firmly in the title conversation as they continue their push to end a 22-year wait for the Premier League trophy.
Carrick earns breakthrough recognition
One of the standout stories of the season is Michael Carrick, whose mid-season appointment at Manchester United sparked a dramatic turnaround. His influence has helped United secure a return to UEFA Champions League qualification places, earning him a surprise but deserved nomination.
Surprise packages and rising coaches
Andoni Iraola is also recognised after guiding AFC Bournemouth into contention for European qualification, powered by an impressive unbeaten run that has defined their season.
Elsewhere, Keith Andrews is nominated following an impressive debut campaign with Brentford, while Régis Le Bris earns praise for steering Sunderland A.F.C. into the top half of the table after their promotion.
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The winner will be decided through a combination of fan voting and a panel of football experts, with debate already intensifying over whether experience, tactical brilliance, or overachievement should carry the most weight in this season’s decision.