The Premier League is most followed is the world due to its intensity and money some managers enjoy long, successful reigns, others barely have time to unpack their office before being shown the door.
In the past couple years, several managers have endured shockingly brief spells in charge often due to poor results, boardroom panic, or a desperate fight for survival.
Here’s a look at some of the shortest managerial tenures in Premier League history
(1) Sam Allardyce – Leeds United (30 Days)
Sam Allardyce holds the record for the shortest permanent managerial spell in Premier League history. He was appointed on May 3, 2023, to save Leeds United from relegation, “Big Sam” took charge of just four matches. Despite his reputation as a specialist of saving teams for relegation. Leeds failed to avoid the drop, and Allardyce left on June 2, 2023, after only 30 days in charge.
(2) Ange Postecoglou – Nottingham Forest (39 Days)
In one of the most surprising short spells, Ange Postecoglou’s time at Nottingham Forest in 2025 lasted only 39 days. The Austrian was appointed in September 2025, Postecoglou struggled to hit the ground running but failed to record a single win in eight games. The Forest board acted swiftly, parting ways with the Australian manager in mid-October.
(3) Les Reed – Charlton Athletic (40 Days)
Les Reed lasted a day more in office than Postecoglou during his reign at Charlton Athletic. He was appointed in November 2006, Reed’s reign lasted just 40 days after collecting a meager four points from seven games. He was swiftly replaced by Alan Pardew, marking one of the shortest and least successful stints in Premier League history.
(4) René Meulensteen – Fulham (75 Days)
Former Manchester United assistant René Meulensteen was appointed as Fulham’s head coach in December 2013, but his time at the London club was cut short very soon. After just 75 days and 13 matches, he was replaced by Felix Magath. Meulensteen’s brief time in charge saw Fulham pick up only 10 points, as the club continued its downward spiral towards relegation.
(5) Frank de Boer – Crystal Palace (77 Days)
Frank de Boer arrived at Crystal Palace in June 2017 with high expectations were high. The Dutchman promised attractive football and tactical sophistication. However, the reality was disastrous. Palace lost all four of their opening league games without scoring a single goal. Just 77 days after his appointment, De Boer was sacked.
