Arne Slot LiverpoolBest Managers 2024Soccer

It’s Time For a Change Pt.4: Which manager made the biggest impact in 2024?

Photo of Nicky Nicky25/12/2024 - 09:10 am
The Managers who made the biggest change in 2024.

If 2024 has proven anything, it’s that football remains the ultimate chessboard, where the sharpest minds dictate the game’s direction. This year, a cohort of visionary managers has stepped into the spotlight, transforming struggling squads into contenders, elevating stars into superstars, and rewriting tactical playbooks. From the electric high-pressing chaos of Arne Slot’s Liverpool to the measured precision of Luis de la Fuente’s Spain, these managers have done more than just win matches—they’ve left fingerprints on the sport itself.

Whether it’s Nuno Espírito Santo’s survival blueprint at Nottingham Forest or Rúben Amorim’s Manchester United revival, every story here is worth revisiting.

So, grab your metaphorical whiteboard and marker pen—it’s time to break down the genius, grit, and sheer audacity that defined football’s sideline masterminds in 2024.

Arne Slot – Feyenoord / Liverpool

When Arne Slot took the reins from Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool in mid-2024, expectations were tempered with curiosity. Fast forward a few months, and the Dutchman has not only met but exceeded those expectations, propelling Liverpool to the summit of both the Premier League and the Champions League. Slot’s tenure began with a bang, becoming the first Liverpool manager since Gérard Houllier in 1998 to win his inaugural game in charge. He then shattered a two-decade-old record by winning 14 of his first 16 games, a feat previously unmatched in the club’s storied history.

Slot’s philosophy emphasizes high-intensity pressing and fluid attacking play, revitalizing a squad that had shown signs of stagnation. Under his guidance, players like Ryan Gravenberch and Trent Alexander-Arnold have rediscovered their form, with Alexander-Arnold notably enhancing his defensive capabilities.

The 6-3 demolition of Tottenham Hotspur was a testament to Liverpool’s offensive prowess and tactical discipline under Slot. This victory not only extended their lead at the top of the Premier League but also showcased their ability to exploit opponents’ weaknesses ruthlessly. Slot and Liverpool are a match made in heaven.

Arne Slot is Liverpool's new manager
(Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

Luis de la Fuente – Spain

Luis de la Fuente’s appointment as Spain’s national team manager was met with cautious optimism. By the end of 2024, he had silenced any doubters by leading La Roja to their fourth European Championship title, defeating formidable opponents like Italy, France, Germany, and England along the way.

De la Fuente’s approach blends traditional Spanish possession-based football with a newfound verticality, making the team more unpredictable and dynamic. His faith in young talents like Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams has paid dividends, with Yamal earning the UEFA Young Player of the Tournament accolade.

Under his stewardship, Spain has not only achieved success but has done so with a flair reminiscent of their golden era. The team’s cohesion and adaptability have been particularly impressive, setting them up as strong contenders for future tournaments.

Manager Luis de la Fuente led Spain to the Euro 2024 trophy
(Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

Nuno Espírito Santo – Nottingham Forest

Nuno Espírito Santo’s move to Nottingham Forest was seen as a bold step for both the manager and the club. In 2024, he has orchestrated a remarkable turnaround, steering Forest away from relegation fears to a comfortable, European-fighting position in the league. They’re sitting pretty in fourth.

Nuno’s pragmatic approach, focusing on defensive solidity and swift counter-attacks, has made Forest a challenging opponent for even the league’s elite. His ability to adapt tactics based on the opposition has been a key factor in the team’s resurgence. In 2024/25 alone, they have beaten Manchester United, Liverpool and Aston Villa

The development of players like Elliot Anderson and the resurgence of Chris Wood under Nuno’s guidance have been noteworthy, highlighting his man-management skills and tactical acumen.

Rúben Amorim – Sporting / Manchester United

Rúben Amorim’s 2024 has been a whirlwind of triumphs and transitions. At Sporting CP, he orchestrated a domestic double, clinching both the Primeira Liga and the Taça de Portugal. His tactical prowess was on full display during a stunning 4-1 victory over Manchester City in the Champions League, where Viktor Gyökeres netted a hat-trick, marking a memorable farewell before Amorim’s departure.

In November, Amorim took the helm at Manchester United, succeeding Erik ten Hag. The initial phase has been challenging, with the team striving to adapt to his high-intensity style. However, signs of progress emerged, notably with a dramatic ‘Fergie time’ victory over Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium, where United secured a 2-1 win, signaling a potential resurgence under his leadership.

Amorim’s journey from domestic success in Portugal to navigating the complexities of the Premier League underscores his tactical acumen and adaptability. As he continues to imprint his philosophy at Old Trafford, the football world keenly watches the evolution of Manchester United under his guidance.

Enzo Maresca – Leicester / Chelsea

Enzo Maresca’s appointment as Chelsea’s head coach in July 2024 marked the beginning of a transformative era at Stamford Bridge. Under his guidance, Chelsea has emerged as a formidable force in the Premier League, currently sitting in second place with aspirations for the title. Maresca’s tactical acumen is evident in the team’s impressive statistics, boasting 37 goals from 16 games and maintaining an eight-match unbeaten streak.

A hallmark of Maresca’s approach is his innovative training methods. He introduced a giant TV screen at the Cobham training ground, enabling immediate on-field tactical feedback. This hands-on approach has been instrumental in refining player performances and fostering a cohesive team strategy.

Maresca’s man-management skills have also shone through challenging times. He adeptly handled squad dynamics amidst off-field controversies, maintaining team cohesion and focus. His emphasis on clarity and respect has earned him the trust of his players, contributing to Chelsea’s resurgence as title contenders.

Chelsea fans love manager Enzo Maresca
(Photo by Nick Potts/PA Images via Getty Images)

Unai Emery – Aston Villa

Unai Emery’s tenure at Aston Villa has been marked by a remarkable turnaround. After steering the club away from relegation in the 2022/23 season, Emery led Villa to a fourth-place finish in 2023/24, securing UEFA Champions League qualification for the first time in the club’s history.

In 2024, Emery’s tactical expertise has been evident in Villa’s performances against top-tier teams. A notable highlight was the recent 2-1 victory over Manchester City, where young talent Morgan Rogers delivered a standout performance, reflecting Emery’s commitment to nurturing emerging players. They have also beaten Bayern Munich and Juventus at Villa Park, results which would have sounded impossible when Villa were in the Championship just a few years ago.

Emery’s focus on maintaining a strong home record has been complemented by his efforts to address away form challenges. His strategic adjustments aim to enhance Villa’s consistency across all competitions, reinforcing the team’s competitive edge.

Manager Unai Emery
(Photo by James Baylis – AMA/Getty Images)

Xabi Alonso – Bayer Leverkusen

Xabi Alonso’s tenure at Bayer Leverkusen has been nothing short of transformative. In the 2023/24 season, he led the team to their first Bundesliga title, completing the season unbeaten—a historic achievement in German football. They also won the DFK Pokal, completing the double.

Alonso’s tactical ingenuity is reflected in Leverkusen’s attacking fluidity and defensive solidity. The team’s recent 5-1 victory over SC Freiburg, highlighted by standout performances from Florian Wirtz and Patrik Schick, underscores their offensive capabilities.

Under Alonso’s guidance, Leverkusen has also demonstrated resilience in European competitions, reaching the final of the 23/24 Europa League. His leadership has attracted attention from top European clubs, though he remains committed to his project at Leverkusen.

Hansi Flick – Barcelona

Hansi Flick‘s arrival at Barcelona in May 2024 signaled a shift towards a more dynamic and high-pressing style of play. Initially, manager Flick’s tactics yielded positive results, including a 4-0 victory over Real Madrid at the Bernabéu, showcasing the team’s attacking prowess.

However, as the season progressed, Barcelona encountered challenges, experiencing a series of defeats that have raised questions about the team’s adaptability and depth. Despite these setbacks, Flick remains committed to his tactical philosophy, emphasizing high-intensity pressing and quick transitions.

Critics have pointed to defensive vulnerabilities and missed opportunities in crucial matches. Flick’s ability to navigate these challenges and reinvigorate the squad will be pivotal in determining Barcelona’s trajectory in the latter half of the season.

By Nicky Helfgott – NickyHelfgott1 on X (Twitter)

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Photo of Nicky Nicky25/12/2024 - 09:10 am