Several Premier League managers are under significant pressure as the league resumes after the international break. Ruben Amorim at Manchester United faces scrutiny due to inconsistent results, while Nuno Espírito Santo’s position at Nottingham Forest is threatened by a deteriorating relationship with the owner. Graham Potter at West Ham is also under pressure despite a recent victory, with the club reportedly considering replacements. The coming weeks will be critical for these managers as they fight to turn their teams’ seasons around.
The relentless pressure of the Premier League is already mounting on several managers as teams return from the first international break of the 2025/26 season. While some clubs have enjoyed a smooth start, others are facing turbulent times, leaving their managers under immense scrutiny. Let's delve into the situations of those bosses feeling the heat.
Ruben Amorim – Manchester United
Despite securing a dramatic 3-2 victory against Burnley before the international break, Ruben Amorim's position at Manchester United remains precarious. The Portuguese manager, who arrived at Old Trafford just 10 months ago, has struggled to find consistency, leading to growing concerns among fans and club officials. The humiliating EFL Cup exit at the hands of League Two side Grimsby on August 27th further amplified the pressure on Amorim.
Amorim himself has acknowledged the need for a significant turnaround, hinting at his potential departure if results don't improve. The upcoming Manchester derby against Man City presents a daunting challenge for the struggling manager and his team. A heavy defeat could push Amorim closer to the exit door, despite the club's initial support during the summer.
“I think the players spoke really loudly about what they want today.”
“I just want to apologise to our fans.”
“Something has to change and you’re not going to change 22 players again.”
Ruben Amorim speaks with @gabrielclarke05 after defeat to Grimsby#MUFC | #CarabaoCup pic.twitter.com/anXoVFHoMP
— ITV Football (@itvfootball) August 27, 2025
Nuno Espírito Santo – Nottingham Forest
After an unexpected yet brilliant campaign last season, Nuno Espirito Santo is now facing a different kind of challenge. Nottingham Forest, who earned plenty of accolades for their performance last season, are currently facing a storm. The recent 3-0 defeat against West Ham has brought the rivalry between Santo and club owner Evangelos Marinakis into sharp focus.
Santo publicly revealed the deterioration of his relationship with Marinakis, sparking concerns about his future at the club. With reports suggesting that Ange Postecoglou has been approached as a potential replacement, Santo's position appears increasingly fragile. The manager is also reportedly embroiled in a power struggle with global head of football Edu, further destabilizing the situation at the City Ground. If this dynamic can't change, then Santo might be managing his way out of the door at the club.
“Our relationship has changed… it’s not good.”
Nuno Espirito Santo says the relationship between himself and Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis has changed for the worse. pic.twitter.com/bfcv7f43uf
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) August 22, 2025
Graham Potter – West Ham
Despite West Ham's impressive 3-0 victory over Nottingham Forest before the international break, Graham Potter remains under intense pressure. The former Chelsea boss, who took over in January, has struggled to bring consistency to the Hammers, with the team failing to secure consecutive Premier League wins on more than one occasion since his arrival.
With fears of a relegation battle looming, West Ham's hierarchy are reportedly considering potential replacements for Potter. Financial constraints and growing frustration among fans regarding Potter's tactical approach add to the challenges facing the manager. He needs to find a way to bring the spark to a club that is desperate to see some change in their results and trajectory.
Letter of no confidence in the West Ham board sent by @WHU_ISC. #WHUFC independent supporters’ committee says “this was an incredibly hard decision for the supporter representatives on the West Ham United Fan Advisory Board to make”. Shows the depth of feeling. pic.twitter.com/NN1Ri8putf
— Henry Winter (@henrywinter) September 3, 2025
The Premier League is a demanding environment, and these managers are fully aware of the expectations. The upcoming weeks will be crucial as they strive to turn their teams' fortunes around and alleviate the pressure mounting on their shoulders. Whether they can weather the storm remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the spotlight will be firmly fixed on their every move.