OFFICIAL: Premier League Manager of the Month Nominees for December Announced

The Premier League has officially unveiled the nominees for the Manager of the Month Award for December, recognising four managers who delivered outstanding tactical brilliance, consistency, and leadership during one of the most demanding periods of the season.

December is traditionally the toughest month in English football. Packed fixtures, squad rotation challenges, and relentless pressure often separate elite managers from the rest. This year’s shortlist reflects that intensity, featuring proven winners and tacticians who maximised results under pressure.

Let’s take a closer look at the nominees, their December performances, and who may deserve to take home the award.

What Is the Premier League Manager of the Month Award?

The Premier League Manager of the Month award honours the coach who has had the most significant impact over a calendar month. It is based on match results, team performances, tactical innovation, and overall influence.

December’s award is particularly prestigious due to the congested festive schedule, where strategic squad management and adaptability are critical.

Daniel Farke (Leeds United)

Daniel Farke’s inclusion is a testament to Leeds United’s resurgence under his guidance. December saw Leeds display high-intensity football combined with improved defensive organisation, helping them climb the table and re-establish confidence.

December Highlights

• Strong unbeaten run during the festive fixtures

• High pressing system executed consistently

• Improved defensive structure

• Key victories against direct rivals

Farke’s tactical identity was evident throughout the month. Leeds played with aggression, purpose, and control, often overwhelming opponents with pace and vertical movement. His ability to balance attacking freedom with defensive discipline stood out.

Under Farke, Leeds showed they are not just energetic — they are organized and resilient.

Unai Emery (Aston Villa)

Unai Emery continues to prove why he is one of the Premier League’s most astute tacticians. Aston Villa enjoyed an excellent December, maintaining consistency while competing at the top end of the table.

December Highlights

• Impressive win percentage

• Strong home form maintained

• Effective use of squad rotation

• Tactical flexibility against varied opponents

Villa’s ability to control games was a major talking point. Emery’s structured buildup play, compact defensive shape, and lethal counter-attacks made Aston Villa difficult to break down. His in-game management and substitutions often shifted momentum in tight matches.

Few managers balance structure and creativity as efficiently as Emery.

Mikel Arteta (Arsenal)

Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal enjoyed a commanding December, reinforcing their status as title contenders. Arsenal combined defensive solidity with attacking fluidity, collecting crucial points during a high-pressure period.

December Highlights

• Multiple league wins

• One of the best defensive records for the month

• High possession dominance

• Consistent performances against strong opposition

Arteta’s tactical discipline was evident. Arsenal controlled matches through intelligent pressing, positional play, and quick ball circulation. The team showed maturity, composure, and resilience — hallmarks of a side built to challenge for silverware.

Arteta’s work in maintaining focus and intensity across a demanding schedule places him firmly in contention.

Pep Guardiola (Manchester City)

Pep Guardiola remains the benchmark for elite management in the Premier League. Manchester City’s December performances once again showcased their dominance, efficiency, and tactical evolution.

December Highlights

• High points accumulation

• Free-flowing attacking football

• Defensive consistency despite rotation

• Tactical tweaks to maintain control

City’s positional play, movement, and technical superiority were on full display. Guardiola expertly rotated his squad without disrupting rhythm, ensuring City remained competitive on all fronts. His ability to innovate tactically — even after years of success — continues to set him apart.

When City hit peak form, they remain almost unstoppable.

Head-to-Head Comparison: December Performance Overview

Each nominee excelled in different ways:

• Farke revitalised Leeds with intensity and belief

• Emery delivered efficiency and structure

• Arteta showcased maturity and title-level consistency

• Guardiola maintained elite standards under pressure

Who Has the Edge? Key Factors That Could Decide the Winner

Several elements will influence the final decision:

• Results achieved during fixture congestion

• Quality of opposition faced

• Tactical impact and adaptability

• Squad management and rotation

• Overall influence on league position

Managers who delivered decisive wins while maintaining consistency are often favoured, but narrative and difficulty of circumstances also play a role.

Conclusion: Who Deserves the Award?

December once again proved why managerial excellence matters in the Premier League. Each nominee brought something unique to the table, making this one of the most competitive Manager of the Month races in recent memory.

• Farke inspired a revival

• Emery delivered stability and intelligence

• Arteta reinforced Arsenal’s title credentials

• Guardiola continued redefining dominance

Now it’s over to the fans.

Who deserves to win the Premier League Manager of the Month Award for December?