Winning the Premier League is no small feat. It requires tactical brilliance, leadership, and the ability to unite a squad under a common goal. Achieving this in a manager’s first season at a club is even more remarkable. As of 2025, only a select few managers have managed to lift the Premier League trophy in their debut campaign. Here’s a look at the elite group of tacticians who’ve done just that.
1. José Mourinho – Chelsea (2004–05)
Arriving at Stamford Bridge with the confidence of a Champions League-winning manager, José Mourinho instantly transformed Chelsea into a dominant force. In his debut Premier League season, Mourinho guided the Blues to their first title in 50 years, setting a then-record 95 points and conceding only 15 goals—a defensive record that still stands.
2. Carlo Ancelotti – Chelsea (2009–10)
Another Italian mastermind who made an immediate impact at Chelsea, Ancelotti delivered the league title in his first season in charge. His Chelsea side dazzled with attacking flair, scoring a record 103 goals en route to the championship, edging out Manchester United by a single point.
3. Manuel Pellegrini – Manchester City (2013–14)
The Chilean manager brought an exciting brand of attacking football to Manchester City. In his debut campaign, Pellegrini’s side scored 102 goals and claimed the title by two points over Liverpool. His calm demeanor and sharp tactics earned him instant respect and silverware.
4. Claudio Ranieri – Leicester City (2015–16)
Perhaps the most improbable title win in football history, Claudio Ranieri led 5000–1 outsiders Leicester City to Premier League glory. In his first season at the helm, Ranieri turned a team fighting relegation into champions, capturing the hearts of football fans worldwide. It remains one of the greatest underdog stories in sport.
5. Antonio Conte – Chelsea (2016–17)
The third Chelsea manager on this list, Conte revitalized the team after a dismal 2015–16 campaign. Switching to a 3-4-3 formation, he led the Blues to 30 wins and 93 points, finishing seven points clear at the top. His tactical innovation and fiery passion earned immediate success.
Potential No. 6: Arne Slot – Liverpool (2024–25)
As of April 2025, Arne Slot is on the brink of joining this elite group. In his debut season managing Liverpool, the Dutch coach has led the Reds to the top of the table with just weeks left in the campaign. If he holds on, Slot will become the sixth manager to win the Premier League in his first season with the club.
Honorable Mention: Sir Alex Ferguson – Manchester United (1992–93)
While not a first-year manager at the club, it’s worth noting that Sir Alex Ferguson won the inaugural Premier League title in 1992–93. However, he had been in charge of Manchester United since 1986. His first Premier League season was a milestone, but not his first with the Red Devils.
Conclusion
Winning the Premier League is the ultimate test of managerial prowess. For these five—soon to be six—managers, doing so in their first year set a powerful tone for their tenures and left an indelible mark on English football. Their achievements continue to inspire and set the benchmark for newcomers aiming to make an immediate impact.
