Every Premier League season produces at least one manager facing early scrutiny. A few weeks into 2026-27, one name stands out above the rest for the wrong reasons.
## Enzo Maresca, Manchester City
Taking over any club in the post-Pep Guardiola era was always going to be a difficult assignment, but Maresca’s start has been rockier than most expected. A 3-0 Community Shield defeat to Arsenal was followed by an unconvincing 2-1 win over Bournemouth that did little to ease concerns. Rodri’s continued absence has exposed real midfield problems that Maresca has yet to solve, even with the addition of Elliot Anderson.
## Chelsea’s Coaching Setup
While not facing the same intense spotlight as Maresca, Chelsea’s coaching staff will feel pressure after a 3-2 defeat to Fulham exposed defensive frailties early in the campaign. How the club handles its remaining transfer business, including the pursuit of Julian Alvarez, will heavily influence how much patience supporters extend.
## Managers Under Less Pressure
By contrast, Arsenal’s approach looks settled and assured, with their Community Shield performance suggesting genuine continuity from last season’s success. Newcastle’s decision to reinvest in Bruno Guimarães rather than restructure the squad also reflects confidence in the existing setup under Eddie Howe.
## Why Early Pressure Matters
Managerial pressure this early in a season rarely leads to immediate change, but it shapes the narrative around a club for months. Poor form compounds quickly once results and performances both trend negatively, particularly at a club with the expectations City now carry.
## What Would Ease the Pressure
A strong result against Crystal Palace, previewed in full in our weekend fixtures roundup, would go a long way toward settling nerves at City. Continued struggles, however, would only intensify scrutiny heading deeper into the autumn schedule.
## The Bigger Picture
For context on how these early results are shaping the wider title race, our full contenders ranking explains why City’s stumble matters more this season than in years when Rodri anchored their midfield without question.