The 2025/2026 football season has opened with a flurry of managerial changes, igniting widespread debate among fans and pundits alike.
Within just five days, between August 28 and September 1, three high-profile managers—Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Jose Mourinho, and Erik ten Hag—were relieved of their duties following disappointing starts.
The sackings were largely attributed to underwhelming league performances and setbacks in European competitions, with each coach encountering distinct challenges that hastened their departure.
1. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer:
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was dismissed by Besiktas on August 28, 2025, after the club’s elimination from the Conference League play-offs.
The Norwegian, appointed in January 2025 on a one-and-a-half-year deal, lasted only eight months in his first role since leaving Manchester United in 2021.
Although he guided Besiktas to a fourth-place finish in the Turkish Super Lig last season, early struggles this term—despite an opening 2-1 victory over Eyupspor—proved costly.
2. Jose Mourinho:
A day later, on August 29, Jose Mourinho parted ways with Fenerbahce, just days after their Champions League play-off defeat to Benfica.
The Portuguese manager, who had been at the helm for more than a year, was outspoken on issues of officiating in Turkey.
In their farewell statement, Fenerbahce expressed gratitude for his contributions and extended best wishes for the future.
3. Erik ten Hag:
Erik ten Hag followed on September 1, when Bayer Leverkusen terminated his contract after only two Bundesliga games.
The Dutchman, appointed in July 2025 on a two-year deal to succeed Xabi Alonso after his move to Real Madrid, oversaw a 2-1 loss to Hoffenheim and a 3-3 draw with 10-man Werder Bremen.