Forget Guardiola: Here are 3 reasons why Burnley boss Dyche deserves Manager of the Season award
When the manager of the year award is announced, it will be highly unlikely to see someone other than Pep Guardiola collecting it.
Manchester City have been the best team in the Premier League by a country mile, with the players producing breathtaking attacking football week in and week out. They have rightly been crowned as the Premier League champions this term.
On the other hand, there is a team that has shocked millions across the globe by punching above its weight — Burnley. Sean Dyche has done a brilliant job with the Clarets, helping the club to a Europa League playoff spot next season. They are comfortably sitting 7th on the table and have already picked up more points than they’ve ever managed in their Premier League history.
That said, here are three big reasons why Dyche and not Guardiola should be named as the manager of the season.
Managed Burnley on a tight budget
Dyche has managed Burnley on a shoe-string budget, which alone should be enough to hand him the prestigious award. The Clarets have enjoyed a fantastic season and have qualified for the Europa League playoffs.
The Englishman has spent peanuts in comparison to Guardiola and has succeeded in getting the best out of every single player in his squad and has done a remarkable job.
Getting the best out of players
Having taken over at Turf Moor when the Clarets were still in the Championship, Dyche has twice guided the club to the Premier League. This season, he has exceeded expectations but it wouldn’t have been possible without getting the very best out of his current squad.
Chris Wood was signed from Championship side Leeds United at the start of the season and while the New Zealand international has not been breathtaking, his goals have significantly contributed to Burnley this season.
James Tarkowski made his England debut earlier this year, while Kevin Long has become a solid squad player under Dyche this season. Ashley Barnes has been revitalised this term, whereas Nick Pope has replaced Tom Heaton and is pushing for the No.1 spot in the national team.
These are some of the examples of Dyche’s fantastic man-management skills.
Europa League calling
What adds more value and respect for Dyche is the way he has worked rigorously to make this Burnley team an example for all mid-table clubs across Europe.
It has been 52 years since Burnley enjoyed a season in Europe. Their current status, given that they have spent so less, tells the remarkable job that Dyche has done. He has been a motivator and his production has largely come from a compact budget, something that has earned him worldwide praise.
All in all, what’s more impressive is that they have spent less than 18 other teams in the league. This is another achievement that deserves a mention.