13 Jun 2024 11 min read Premier League News

18 youngest Premier League managers of all time [ranked]

Ultimate list of youngest Premier League managers of all time [ranked]

The Premier League clubs have never been afraid to appoint young managers, with some of the best coaches starting their managerial careers in their early 30s.

Over the history of the Premier League, 50 managers who have managed at least one game have been under the age of 40.

With Brighton & Hove Albion set to appoint Fabian Hürzeler as their new manager, the German is set to become the youngest Premier League manager to manage a game in its 32-year history.

We've compiled the ultimate list of youngest managers to manage at least one game in the Premier League, including caretaker managers and interim managers.

Only seven coaches in our list managed a win on their Premier League managerial debut, with the majority succumbing to defeat.

Appointing younger managers is not a new trend, typically former players or captains have been asked to assume managerial responsibilities often in turbulent times.

But what is new, is the appointment of unproven young managers from outside of the Premier League, with managers such as Enzo Maresca, Kieran McKenna, and Fabian Hürtzeler the latest names to be linked with established English Premier League clubs.

18. Gareth Southgate

Club: Middlesbrough FC
Age at Managerial Debut: 35 years, 11 months, 16 days
Date of Managerial Debut: August 19, 2006
Result of Debut: Reading FC 3:2 Middlesbrough FC

Gareth Southgate made his Premier League managerial debut for Middlesbrough FC on 19 August 2006, succeeding Steve McClaren who had left to manage the England national team. Southgate, a former Middlesbrough player and England international, began his managerial career with a thrilling 3-2 victory against Reading in his debut match. Known for his meticulous approach and strong leadership qualities, Southgate guided Middlesbrough through a challenging period, balancing domestic and European competitions during his tenure. He managed the club for a total of 126 league games before leaving in 2009.

Gareth Southgate is the eighteenth youngest manager in Premier League history

17. Glenn Hoddle

Club: Chelsea FC
Age at Managerial Debut: 35 years, 9 months, 18 days
Date of Managerial Debut: August 14, 1993
Result of Debut: Chelsea FC 1:2 Blackburn Rovers

Glenn Hoddle made his Premier League managerial debut for Chelsea FC on 14 August 1993, taking over from Ian Porterfield. Hoddle, a former England international and a respected figure in football, began his managerial career with a 2-1 defeat to Blackburn Rovers in his debut match. Despite the initial setback, Hoddle's tenure at Chelsea was characterized by his progressive tactical approach and a commitment to nurturing young talent. He managed Chelsea for a total of 78 league games before leaving in 1996 to become the England national team manager.

16. Aidy Boothroyd

Club: Watford FC
Age at Managerial Debut: 35 years, 6 months, 11 days
Date of Managerial Debut: August 19, 2006
Result of Debut: Everton FC 2:1 Watford FC

Aidy Boothroyd made his Premier League managerial debut for Watford FC on 19 August 2006, following their promotion from the Championship. Boothroyd, who had earned promotion with Watford the previous season, led the team in their first Premier League match against Everton. The debut resulted in a narrow 2-1 victory for Everton. Despite the defeat, Boothroyd's tenure was marked by his tactical acumen and motivational skills, which earned him praise despite the team's relegation at the end of the season.

15. Dave Watson

Club: Everton FC
Age at Managerial Debut: 35 years, 4 months, 16 days
Date of Managerial Debut: April 5, 1997
Result of Debut: Aston Villa 3:1 Everton FC

Dave Watson made his Premier League managerial debut for Everton FC on 5 April 1997, stepping in as caretaker manager after the dismissal of Joe Royle. Watson, a former Everton player and captain, took charge on an interim basis and guided the team to a convincing 3-1 victory against Aston Villa in his debut match. Despite this positive start, Watson returned to his role as a player and later continued his coaching career, while Howard Kendall eventually returned as Everton's permanent manager.

14. Leon Britton

Club: Swansea City
Age at Managerial Debut: 35 years, 3 months, 7 days
Date of Managerial Debut: December 23, 2017
Result of Debut: Swansea City 1:1 Crystal Palace

Leon Britton made his managerial debut for Swansea City in the Premier League on 23 December 2017, taking charge on an interim basis following the sacking of Paul Clement. Britton, a revered figure at Swansea as a former player, oversaw a 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace in his debut match. Despite his brief stint as interim manager, Britton's leadership was instrumental in stabilising the team during a challenging period. Carlos Carvalhal was subsequently appointed as manager after Britton managed just one game.

13. Paul Goddard

Club: Ipswich Town
Age at Managerial Debut: 35 years, 1 month, 28 days
Date of Managerial Debut: December 10, 1994
Result of Debut: Nottingham Forest 4:1 Ipswich Town

Paul Goddard made his Premier League managerial debut for Ipswich Town on 10 December 1994, following the departure of John Lyall. Goddard, previously the assistant manager, took over on an interim basis and oversaw a memorable 4-1 victory against Nottingham Forest in his debut match. Despite the promising start, Goddard returned to his assistant manager role after managing just a handful of games, as George Burley was appointed as the permanent manager in February 1995.

12. Garry Monk

Club: Swansea City
Age at Managerial Debut: 34 years, 11 months, 2 days
Date of Managerial Debut: February 8, 2014
Result of Debut: Swansea City 3:0 Cardiff City

Garry Monk made his Premier League managerial debut for Swansea City on 8 February 2014, succeeding Michael Laudrup. Monk, who had been a stalwart defender for Swansea, took over as player-manager and led the team to a convincing 3-0 victory over Cardiff City in his debut match. His tactical astuteness and ability to motivate the squad earned him praise as he guided Swansea to a comfortable mid-table finish that season. Monk managed the club for 68 league games before parting ways in December 2015.

Garry Monk is the twelfth youngest manager in Premier League history

11. Paul Jewell

Club: Bradford City
Age at Managerial Debut: 34 years, 10 months, 10 days
Date of Managerial Debut: August 7, 1999
Result of Debut: Middlesbrough FC 0:1 Bradford City

Paul Jewell made his Premier League managerial debut for Bradford City on 7 August 1999, following Bradford's promotion to the top flight. Jewell took over from Paul Jewell, having led the team to the second-division title. His debut resulted in a 1-0 defeat to Middlesbrough. Despite the initial setbacks, Jewell's tenure was notable for securing Bradford's Premier League survival against the odds, famously defeating Liverpool and Chelsea. He managed a total of 92 league games before leaving the club in June 2000.

10. Stuart Pearce

Club: Nottingham Forest
Age at Managerial Debut: 34 years, 7 months, 27 days
Date of Managerial Debut: December 21, 1996
Result of Debut: Nottingham Forest 2:1 Arsenal FC

Stuart Pearce made his Premier League managerial debut for Nottingham Forest on 21 December 1996, taking charge after the departure of Frank Clark. Pearce, known for his fierce determination as a player, began his managerial career with a 2-1 victory against Arsenal. Despite his passion and leadership, Pearce's tenure at Forest faced challenges, and he left the club in May 1997. He managed a total of 57 league games before his departure, with Ron Atkinson succeeding him as manager.

9. Alex Neil

Club: Norwich City
Age at Managerial Debut: 34 years, 1 month, 30 days
Date of Managerial Debut: August 8, 2015
Result of Debut: Norwich City 1:3 Crystal Palace

Alex Neil made his Premier League managerial debut for Norwich City on 8 August 2015, following his appointment in January of the same year after the dismissal of Neil Adams. Neil, who had successfully led Norwich to promotion via the Championship play-offs, began his top-flight campaign with a 3-1 defeat to Crystal Palace. Despite showing promise with his tactical acumen and leadership, Neil struggled to maintain consistent results in the Premier League. His tenure lasted until March 2017, when he was sacked with Norwich facing relegation concerns. Neil managed 64 league games before being replaced by Alan Irvine on an interim basis.

8. Kevin MacDonald

Club: Leicester City
Age at Managerial Debut: 34 years, 1 day
Date of Managerial Debut: November 23, 1994
Result of Debut: Leicester City 2:1 Arsenal FC

Kevin MacDonald made his Premier League managerial debut for Leicester City on 23 November 1994, following the sacking of Brian Little, who had left to manage Aston Villa. MacDonald, initially stepping in as caretaker manager, oversaw a 2-1 victory against Arsenal in his debut match. Despite this positive start, MacDonald's stint was brief; he managed only a few games before the club appointed Mark McGhee as the permanent manager in December 1994. MacDonald returned to his role as a coach after managing just three league games.

7. Ruud Gullit

Club: Chelsea FC
Age at Managerial Debut: 33 years, 11 months, 17 days
Date of Managerial Debut: August 18, 1996
Result of Debut: Southampton FC 0:0 Chelsea FC

Ruud Gullit made his Premier League managerial debut for Chelsea on 18 August 1996, becoming player-manager after Glenn Hoddle left to manage the England national team. Gullit's debut ended in a 0-0 draw against Southampton. Known for his charismatic leadership and tactical insight, Gullit quickly made an impact, leading Chelsea to FA Cup glory in 1997. However, his tenure was unexpectedly cut short in February 1998 due to a fallout with the club's board. He was replaced by Gianluca Vialli, who took over after Gullit had managed 63 games in charge.

Ruud Gullit was the seventh youngest manager in Premier League history at Chelsea

6. André Villas-Boas

Club: Chelsea FC
Age at Managerial Debut: 33 years, 9 months, 28 days
Date of Managerial Debut: August 14, 2011
Result of Debut: Stoke City 0:0 Chelsea FC

The former prodigy of Sir Bobby Robson, André Villas-Boas made his Premier League managerial debut for Chelsea on 14 August 2011, following his appointment as manager in June that year. Villas-Boas was brought in after the sacking of Carlo Ancelotti, who had failed to meet the club's expectations despite a successful spell that included a Premier League and FA Cup double.

Villas-Boas, who had impressed at FC Porto by winning the treble, was seen as a young, dynamic tactician capable of ushering in a new era at Stamford Bridge. His debut resulted in a 0-0 draw against Stoke City, highlighting the team's initial struggle to adapt to his methods. Despite high expectations, Villas-Boas' tenure was marred by inconsistent performances and internal conflicts. He was sacked in March 2012 after just 27 league games, with Roberto Di Matteo stepping in as caretaker manager and later leading the club to their first Champions League triumph.

5. Gianluca Vialli

Club: Chelsea FC
Age at Managerial Debut: 33 years, 7 months, 27 days
Date of Managerial Debut: March 8, 1998
Result of Debut: Chelsea FC 0:1 Aston Villa

Gianluca Vialli made his Premier League managerial debut for Chelsea on 8 March 1998, following the departure of Ruud Gullit. Gullit, who had been successful at the helm, was unexpectedly sacked amidst rumours of a contract dispute and a strained relationship with the club's hierarchy.

Vialli, a celebrated Italian striker and part of the squad, was appointed as player-manager, bringing a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the team's dynamics. His debut saw Chelsea suffer a narrow 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa, but Vialli quickly adapted to his dual role.

He led Chelsea to a UEFA Cup Winners' Cup and League Cup double in his first few months. However, despite his early success, Vialli was dismissed in September 2000 after a poor start to the season. He was replaced by Claudio Ranieri, who took over after Vialli had managed 94 games in charge.

4. Chris Coleman

Club: Fulham FC
Age at Managerial Debut: 32 years, 7 months, 22 days
Date of Managerial Debut: February 1, 2003
Result of Debut: Arsenal FC 2:1 Fulham FC

Chris Coleman made his Premier League managerial debut for Fulham on 1 February 2003, stepping up after the departure of Jean Tigana. Tigana, who had guided the club to the top flight, left due to a disappointing run of form and internal disagreements.

Coleman, a former Welsh international and a key player for Fulham, was promoted from within the club as a caretaker manager. Despite the initial challenges, Coleman impressed with his leadership and tactical acumen, leading to his permanent appointment. He managed the team until April 2007, when he was dismissed after a string of poor results. He was succeeded by Lawrie Sanchez, who took over in a bid to steer Fulham away from relegation.

3. Attilio Lombardo

Club: Crystal Palace
Age at Managerial Debut: 32 years, 2 months, 8 days
Date of Managerial Debut: March 14, 1998
Result of Debut: Aston Villa 3:1 Crystal Palace

Attilio Lombardo made his managerial debut for Crystal Palace on 14 March 1998, stepping in as player-manager following the departure of Steve Coppell. Coppell, a highly respected figure at the club, had been unable to stave off a series of poor results, leading to his resignation. Lombardo, an experienced Italian midfielder, was seen as a charismatic and tactical mind who could potentially reverse the club's fortunes. Unfortunately, his tenure was short-lived; he was sacked after just 8 games in charge. Lombardo was replaced by Terry Venables, a seasoned manager tasked with stabilising the club and improving their performance.

2. Ryan Mason

Club: Tottenham Hotspur
Age at Managerial Debut: 29 years, 10 months, 8 days
Date of Managerial Debut: April 21, 2021
Result of Debut: Tottenham Hotspur 2:1 Southampton FC

Ryan Mason has had several stints as the interim manager of Spurs, with his earliest opportunity arising on April 21, 2021. The former Tottenham player, Mason, was asked by chairman Daniel Levy to take charge of the team on a caretaker basis after José Mourinho was controversially sacked just days before the EFL Cup Final against Manchester City. Mason's Premier League debut as a manager, albeit interim, was a 2:1 home win against Southampton.

1. Fabian Hürzeler

Club: Brighton & Hove Albion
Age at Managerial Debut: 31 years, 5 months, 22 days*
Date of Managerial Debut: August 17, 2024**
Result of Debut: TBD

Fabian Hürzeler is the youngest manager in Premier League history, making his debut aged 31 years, 5 months and 22 days on August 17 2024. The former FC St. Pauli manager became the frontrunner for the Brighton role after an impressive season in 2. Bundesliga where he achieved promotion with his impressive tactics and style of play.

*Fabian Hürzeler's age on August 17 2024 when the first round of the Premier League 2024/25 season.

**Predicted date of Fabian Hürzeler's Premier League debut as the fixtures for the 2024/25 Premier League season have not yet been released.

That concludes our round-up of the youngest managers in Premier League history, with more young managers being offered opportunities at the elite level, we can expect this number the rise in the coming years.

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