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Premier League managers explain reasons for early transfer window

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Premier League managers give their reaction to the transfer window changes

Managers across the Premier League have have given their views on the decision to bring an early end to the transfer window next season.

Fourteen clubs agreed to shut the window at 17:00 BST on the Thursday before the 2018-19 season starts. The new move means that while clubs will be able to sell until August 31, buying will cease on August 9.

However, Manchester United, Manchester City, Watford, Swansea and Crystal Palace voted against the idea, while Burnley abstained. But, West Brom's Tony Pulis was pleased with the final decision.

"It's absolutely ridiculous," Pulis said. "I don't think it benefits anybody that you can still have all this chaos going on when the match programme has started.

MIDDLESBROUGH, ENGLAND - MARCH 11:  Josep Guardiola, Manager of Manchester City gives his team a thumbs up during The Emirates FA Cup Quarter-Final match b
Image: Pep Guardiola is pleased with the new changes for next season

"I would have closed it a week before the season to stop all the rigmarole going on. It stops all the speculation while you're running and playing games."

The early finish will not mean the Premier League's transfer window is shorter as it will start earlier and be 12 weeks long, in line with FIFA rules.

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Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola also supports the change decided upon on Thursday: "I am so happy with the decision they have taken in the Premier League. I think it's really good."

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However, the board for Manchester United voted against the proposal. But, manager Jose Mourinho explains why it was a difficult decision as he backs the change, but understands the reasons why the board thought differently.

"Obviously I am in favour," Mourinho said. "Of course I want to arrive on day one and have my squad, my players, I want to work with them, travel with them. I don't want to be waiting for late decisions when the championship has already started. That is the coach's perspective.

Jose Mourinho speaks during a press conference at Manchester United's Aon Training Complex
Image: Jose Mourinho spoke about transfer window changes on Friday

"But there is another perspective. Where I can also include myself, because I am more than just the Head Coach. I also have to share the problems the board have, which is, when the decision is not uniform around Europe, we are opening another disadvantage for the English clubs."

European leagues will still be able to buy and sell until August 31, while the Football League's window also remains unaltered.

Burnley manager Sean Dyche came from a similar situation as Mourinho as he too explains the two perspectives that needed to be taken into account.

"As a manager, I am pleased. The business side of the club is slightly trickier because you need time to get recruiting, to get your alignment and for any situation that might arise after the start of the season.

Burnley played two friendlies on Saturday, winning both
Image: Burnley were the only club that abstained the vote on the transfer window

"But from a manager's point of view, then it's definite for me because you want to work with the players you've got."

Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe summed the situation up nicely, as he said there simply was not just a 'yes' or 'no' answer. But, he did ultimately support the final decision.

"I think its good news," he said. "It won't be plain sailing but overall I think it's healthy for the team.

"But I'd rather the challenges it will bring, than the uncertainty in the squad."

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