The year 2026 has barely settled in, yet it has already delivered a flurry of managerial sackings across Europe's biggest clubs. Softfootball has reported that Enzo Maresca was dismissed on New Year's Day , Ruben Amorim left Manchester United on January 5 , and Xabi Alonso parted ways with Real Madrid on January 12 .
The rapid exits have sparked what many are calling an early-year 'sacking spiral," with attention now shifting from why they were dismissed to where they could resurface next.
Before his dismissal, Enzo Maresca had been linked with a potential move to Manchester United as a long-term replacement for Pep Guardiola. At the time, Maresca publicly played down the rumours, insisting he was fully focused on his Chelsea role . However, with his availability now confirmed, speculation is expected to resurface, especially among clubs seeking a tactically progressive coach.
