Manager of the Month: What It Is and Why It Matters

Every month, clubs and leagues hand out a Manager of the Month award to the coach who’s gotten the best results, showed great tactics, or just made the fans smile. It’s a quick way to recognise hard work, boost morale, and give a nod to the people behind the scenes.

How the award is decided

Usually a panel of experts, journalists, or even fans votes on who deserves the title. They look at things like win‑loss record, goal difference, and how the team performed against stronger opponents. Some leagues add extra points for style of play or improvements compared to the previous month. The voting window is short – often just a week after the last match – so fresh performances carry a lot of weight.

In football, for example, the Premier League’s Manager of the Month is chosen by a combination of a public poll and a shortlist created by a football experts panel. In basketball, the NBA uses media members and team executives to decide. The process varies, but the goal stays the same: highlight a coach who made a real impact.

Why the title matters

Getting the badge can boost a manager’s reputation, attract better players, and even raise their market value. It’s also a morale booster for the whole squad – players love seeing their coach get the credit. For fans, the award gives a talking point and a way to celebrate the team’s success.

Beyond the bragging rights, the award can influence contract negotiations. A manager with multiple monthly honors can argue for better terms or a new job at a bigger club. It also helps clubs market themselves – a banner reading "Manager of the Month" looks good on press releases and social media.

For aspiring coaches, the award shows what the industry values: consistency, tactical flexibility, and the ability to get results even with limited resources.

So whether you’re a die‑hard supporter or a budding manager, paying attention to who wins each month gives you insight into the trends shaping the sport.

If you want to improve your own chances, focus on three things: keep the team’s performance steady, adapt tactics to the opponent, and communicate clearly with players. Even small wins, like turning a losing streak into a draw, can catch the panel’s eye. Remember, the award isn’t just about flashier games; it’s about steady progress and making the most of what you have.

Seo Jeong‑won Guides Chengdu Rongcheng to Chinese Super League Lead, Wins Manager of the Month

South Korean coach Seo Jeong‑won has steered Chengdu Rongcheng to the top of the Chinese Super League, earning the August manager of the month award. The club recorded four wins and a draw in five games, beating giants like Shandong Taishan and Shanghai Port. Founded only seven years ago, Chengdu now sits level on points with Shanghai Port but leads on goal difference. Their surge has turned a recent promotee into a genuine title challenger.

Julian Parsons | Sep, 26 2025 Read More