The Athletic FC Podcast Is ‘sacking season’ still a thing?
23 snips
Dec 10, 2025 
Sports journalists Jack Pitt-Brooke and Mark Critchley dive into the dynamics of managerial stability in football this season. They discuss the traditional 'sacking season' and how clubs are showing surprising patience, fueled by financial factors and league competitiveness. The conversation highlights the pressures on new managers, including player buy-in and club expectations. They also explore the rise of young coaches like Cesc Fàbregas at Como and the challenges for established managers like Ruben Amorim at Manchester United.
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Rob Edwards' Risky Wolves Move
- Mark Critchley defended Rob Edwards' decision to join Wolves despite the huge challenge.
- He noted Wolves had lost key players and were in a prolonged decline, making survival unlikely.
A Tighter League Means More Patience
- The Premier League is unusually competitive with fine margins between many clubs.
- That closeness increases boards' willingness to show patience since recovery feels achievable.
Prefer Strategic Timing For Manager Changes
- Avoid sacking mid-season unless you can offer a new manager real training time or transfer support.
- Use windows like the World Cup break to reset when new managers can embed methods.