Premier League 2018-19: Top 3 managers so far 

Javi Gracia Wins the Barclays Manager of the Month Award - August 2018
Gracia poses with the Barclays Manager of the Month award for August 2018

#1 Javier Gracia (Watford)

Watford FC v Crystal Palace - Premier League
Gracia applauds the home fans after Watford's hard-fought win over Palace

Javier Gracia was announced as Watford's new head coach midway through the 2017/18 Premier League campaign. Before joining the Hornets, he was manager of Russian side Rubin Kazan - though his tactical setup is one totally different to former boss Marco Silva.

Silva usually prefers to set up his side with plenty of width down the flanks, encouraging his wingers to remain in wide areas and sit high up the pitch, which would help them build counter-attacking moves more effectively.

Gracia meanwhile, prefers his wingers to come inside and provide more defensive responsibility out of possession. It helps solidify the team without the ball and forces their opponents into wide areas regularly, rather than playing through the middle where it can be easier to create goalscoring opportunities.

Earlier this week, Gracia was rewarded for his efforts with the Premier League Manager of the Month accolade. It came as no surprise in truth, as he has led the Hornets to four impressive victories - most notably a comeback win at home against Tottenham last weekend.

It's far too early to speculate, though Watford supporters will be hoping their side can emulate the success of Claudio Ranieri's Leicester City side and push for the European places, in an unpredictable campaign.

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