Between Amorim, Hurzeler, Nuno, who will win March EPL MOTM
Manchester United manager, Ruben Amorim, Brighton manager, Fabian Hurzeler, and Nottingham Forest manager, Nuno Espirito Santo. Photo Credit- Premier League
As the Premier League season gradually comes to its climax, three managers have emerged as standout performers for March, earning nominations for the prestigious Barclays Manager of the Month award. Ruben Amorim of Manchester United, Fabian Hurzeler of Brighton & Hove Albion, and Nuno Espirito Santo of Nottingham Forest have each guided their teams to impressive results, combining tactical skills with diligent determination. With public voting closing on Monday, March 31, and the winner set to be announced early April. This piece is set to explore their managerial performances, strategies, and chances of claiming the accolade.
Ruben Amorim – Manchester United
Amongst the nominated managers is Ruben Amorim, the Portuguese tactician managing Manchester United, has brought a sense of stability to Old Trafford in March. With a record of two matches played, one win, one draw, and no losses (P2 W1 D1 L0), his side earned four points from a possible six, boasting a goal difference of +3. A hard-fought 1-1 draw against Arsenal showcased United’s resilience, while a commanding 3-0 victory over Leicester City extended their unbeaten league run to four matches.
Amorim’s tactical hallmark has been a flexible 3-4-3 formation, emphasizing high pressing and quick transitions. Against Arsenal, his team absorbed pressure before striking on the counter, with Bruno Fernandes bringing his tactics into reality. The Leicester win highlighted his ability to combine defensive solidity with clinical finishing, as United capitalized on set pieces and quick attacking moves. Amorim’s focus on discipline and structure has revitalized a squad that had struggled for consistency earlier in the season.
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Fabian Hurzeler – Brighton
Brighton’s Fabian Hurzeler, a German manager in his debut Premier League season, continues to dazzle fans. His March records is similar to Amorim in terms of results; two matches, one win, one draw, no losses (P2 W1 D1 L0) but with a slimmer goal difference of +1. A thrilling 2-1 comeback victory over Fulham and a 2-2 draw at Manchester City extended Brighton’s unbeaten run to five matches, putting them in seventh-place and pushing the dreams of European qualification to reality.
Hurzeler’s approach blends possession-based football with a high defensive line, often deploying a 4-2-3-1 that shifts into a 4-4-2 when defending. Against Fulham, his substitutions sparked the turnaround, with late goals reflecting his squad’s fitness and adaptability. The City draw showcased his tactical ability, as Brighton twice clawed back deficits through close passing and exploiting wide areas. Hurzeler’s ability to instill belief in a young squad has made Brighton a tough nut to crack, especially when it comes to big games.
Nuno Espirito Santo – Nottingham Forest
Nottingham Forest’s Nuno Espirito Santo has arguably the strongest statistical claim. His team played two matches and won both (P2 W2 D0 L0), posting a +3 goal difference. A stunning 1-0 upset over defending champions Manchester City and a 4-2 win over Ipswich Town have kept Forest in the hunt for a UEFA Champions League spot, a remarkable turnaround for a club once battling relegation.
Nuno’s careful 4-2-3-1 setup prioritizes a compact midfield and rapid counterattacks using the flanks. The City win was a masterclass in defensive organization or what some may say”Haram football,” with Nikola Milenkovic controlling the defense to reduce City’s attack, while a lone goal from Hudson-Odoi in the 83rd minute sealed the shock result. Against Ipswich, Nuno unleashed Forest’s attacking potential, with Elanga again shining alongside an impressive four-man attack. His experience, having won this award twice earlier this season in October and December, shows his ability for being at the top in critical moments.
Who will win?
These managers each brings a compelling narrative to the table. Amorim’s revival of Manchester United appeals to those valuing transformation at a big club. Hurzeler’s flair and fearlessness against top sides highlight a breakout star. Yet Nuno’s flawless March record, highlighted by a significant win over Manchester City, feels like the straw that broke the Carmel’s back.
Football pundits are going for Nuno Espirito Santo as the likely winner, given his 100% win rate even against a Premier League giant. The public vote, which accounts for 10% of the decision alongside a panel of experts, could shift the balance, with United’s massive fan base might rally for Amorim; but Forest’s resurgence under Nuno seems is set to clinch it. If he prevails, it’ll be his third award of the 2024/25 season, a testament to his enduring impact.
As the Premier League pauses for reflection, these three managers have given fans plenty to cheer about. The winner, to be revealed next week, will not only celebrate a stellar March but also signal their intent for the season’s final stretch. Who’s your pick? The debate rages on.
Note: Voting remains open until 12:00 BST on Monday, March 31, at premierleague.com.
