Key Takeaways:
- Sergei Jakirovic secured Premier League Manager of the Month for August after Hull City’s back-to-back victories in their first two fixtures
- Joao Pedro became the season’s opening Player of the Month, delivering two goals and two assists in Chelsea’s opening two games
- Hull City sit third in the Premier League table following their goalless draw with Aston Villa in September
Jakirovic’s Premier League Return Sparks Award-Winning Start
Sergei Jakirovic has been named Premier League Manager of the Month for August after guiding Hull City to a remarkable beginning upon their resurgence in the top flight. The Tigers launched their campaign with a standout home victory over Manchester United and followed up with an away win at Coventry. Although Hull’s unbeaten run extended with a goalless encounter against Aston Villa at the start of September, their early season form has propelled them into third place in the current Premier League standings. Jakirovic’s achievement marks the first time since August 2016 – when Mike Phelan held the post – that a Hull City manager has captured this monthly honour.
Overseeing @hullcity's dream start to life back in the Premier League 🐯
Sergei Jakirovic is @barclays Manager of the Month for August 💪 pic.twitter.com/alr9aJIa9y
— Premier League (@premierleague) September 11, 2026
Rivals for the Manager of the Month Award
Jakirovic edged out a talented field including Mikel Arteta, Xabi Alonso, and Enzo Maresca. Each contender had also overseen two victories in their opening matches, but Jakirovic’s impressive results were ultimately recognised with the award.
| Manager | Club | August Results |
|---|---|---|
| Sergei Jakirovic | Hull City | Two wins |
| Mikel Arteta | Arsenal | Two wins |
| Xabi Alonso | Chelsea | Two wins |
| Enzo Maresca | Manchester City | Two wins |
Joao Pedro’s Dynamic Start Earns Player of the Month Recognition
Chelsea forward Joao Pedro has been awarded the Premier League’s Player of the Month for August following a superb contribution of two goals and two assists across the side’s opening two fixtures. This marks the first occasion the Brazilian has claimed this particular accolade in his career.
The last Chelsea player to be recognised as Player of the Month was Cole Palmer in September 2024. In claiming this award, Joao Pedro surpassed a field of top performers, including one of his own teammates in Palmer. The other contenders were Riccardo Calafiori (Arsenal), Rayan Cherki (Manchester City), Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United), Mamady Sangare (Brentford), Konstantinos Tzolakis (Hull City), and Yoane Wissa (Newcastle).
