YEAR ENDER 2025: The year 2025 was a tough one for football managers which once again demonstrated the lack of mercy of modern football. Even though Results were the major factor, the time when a decision was made also mattered as well as the expectations and the managers' patience or lack thereof. The managerial changes had a significant impact on the organisation of the football calendar this year, from surprising early terminations to international stage high-profile exits.
Some measures took the leagues by storm, while others symbolized the termination of periods that never really started. The following is an overview of the top 5 sackings that were characteristic of 2025.
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- Erik ten Hag — Bayer Leverkusen
Erik ten Hag’s spell at Bayer Leverkusen was almost finished from the very start. After only 62 days of leading the team, he was fired, and his removal turned out to be one of the quickest in Bundesliga history. The team’s bad performance in the beginning did not allow any time for making changes, thus, it became one of the most sudden managerial exits of the year.
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- Julen Lopetegui — West Ham United
Beginning with poor outcomes in league matches, West Ham chose to end Julen Lopetegui’s tenure. Despite his background, progress appeared unlikely under his leadership. Because of this belief, adjustments in strategy took shape early. New directions emerged regarding player moves and team direction once the dismissal occurred.
- Luciano Spalletti — Italy National Team
At the international level, the sacking of Luciano Spalletti in Italy drew the most attention. The Italian federation had to take drastic measures and change their long-term plans due to losing to Norway 3–0, which was a heavy blow during the World Cup qualifying match.
- Jose Mourinho — Fenerbahce
Failure in the Champions League playoffs ended Jose Mourinho’s stint at Fenerbahçe sooner than expected. Expectations had been immense, yet elimination brought an early exit. This instance reinforced once again that top-tier clubs allow little room for missteps.
- Igor Tudor — Juventus
Sacked in late 2025, Igor Tudor left Juventus following poor performances across multiple league matches. Pressure had built steadily; performance failed to meet internal benchmarks. Such swift departures reflect how closely outcomes are tied to leadership at the club.
Also Read: YEAR ENDER 2025: Five most memorable football matches of 2025