The 20 Best Football Managers in the World Right Now (2025)

May 29, 2025 Oliver Obel

World football is stacked with top-tier managerial talent in 2025, from veteran tacticians to rising innovators. This list highlights the top 20 managers based on recent success, silverware, tactical impact, and consistency at the highest level—starting from number 20 and building up to the best in the game.

20. Nuno Espirito Santo – Nottingham Forest

Nuno Espírito Santo — Christian Bertrand / Shutterstock.com

Nuno has taken Nottingham Forest to new heights, leading them toward a possible return to European competition. His tactical discipline and belief have surprised many, solidifying his reputation as a top coach.

19. Eddie Howe – Newcastle United

Howe continues to elevate Newcastle with smart management and calm leadership. After winning a historic trophy and securing a top-three league spot, he’s delivering beyond expectations.

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18. Luciano Spalletti – Italy

Spalletti earned praise after guiding Napoli to a Serie A title before taking over Italy’s national team. Though Italy struggled at Euro 2024, his tactical acumen remains evident.

17. Gian Piero Gasperini – Atalanta

After years of steady work, Gasperini finally tasted major success by winning the Europa League with Atalanta. His attacking style and player development have made him a respected figure in Italian football.

16. Luis de la Fuente – Spain

Luis de la Fuente led Spain to a flawless Euro 2024 campaign, winning all seven matches en route to the title. His influence on a young, vibrant team has re-established Spain among the elite.

15. Julian Nagelsmann – Germany

Despite missing out on Euro 2024 glory, Nagelsmann has revitalized Germany with dynamic tactics and youth integration. His modern coaching philosophy continues to gain admirers.

14. Thomas Tuchel – England

Now managing England, Tuchel started his new job with two straight wins after leaving Bayern Munich. He remains one of Europe’s sharpest minds, with a proven record in major competitions.

13. Didier Deschamps – France

Deschamps keeps France competitive at every tournament, narrowly missing out on World Cup and Euro triumphs. His leadership and tournament pedigree make him a constant threat on the world stage.

12. Lionel Scaloni – Argentina

Scaloni completed Lionel Messi’s international legacy with World Cup and Copa America wins. He’s built a resilient, title-winning Argentina squad that continues to shine.

11. Unai Emery – Aston Villa

Emery transformed Aston Villa into Champions League qualifiers and nearly added another European trophy. His tactical knowledge and man-management have revitalized the club.

10. Mikel Arteta – Arsenal

Arteta’s Arsenal continues to challenge for the Premier League title and made a strong Champions League run. While silverware still eludes him, he’s brought stability and belief back to the club.

9. Diego Simeone – Atletico Madrid

Simeone’s Atletico consistently competes at the top, even if trophies have been scarce lately. His tactical discipline and intensity remain unmatched across European football.

8. Xabi Alonso – Bayer Leverkusen

Alonso led Leverkusen to a Bundesliga title and DFB Pokal while maintaining an impressive unbeaten run. His tactical brilliance has marked him as a future managerial superstar.

7. Luis Enrique – Paris Saint-Germain

Enrique has made PSG even more formidable without Mbappe, securing Ligue 1 and reaching the Champions League final. His adaptability and player management are shining through.

6. Antonio Conte – Napoli

Conte returned to Italy and quickly delivered a Scudetto with Napoli. His tactical rigor and winning mentality have restored his place among Europe’s elite coaches.

5. Hansi Flick – Barcelona

Flick has led Barcelona to a domestic treble, reclaiming the La Liga title from Real Madrid. After a tough spell with Germany, he’s bounced back in spectacular fashion.

4. Simone Inzaghi – Inter Milan

Filippo Inzaghi — Fabrizio Andrea Bertani / Shutterstock.com

Inzaghi has guided Inter to back-to-back Serie A titles and deep Champions League runs. His ability to win big matches and develop a cohesive side has been key to Inter’s resurgence.

3. Arne Slot – Liverpool

Slot replaced Klopp and delivered an instant impact at Liverpool, leading them to the top of the Premier League. His fearless approach and results have won over fans and pundits alike.

2. Carlo Ancelotti – Real Madrid

Ancelotti continues to win trophies at an elite level, adding another Champions League and La Liga title. His calm authority and tactical expertise keep Madrid dominant.

1. Pep Guardiola – Manchester City

Guardiola remains the benchmark in football management, securing a fourth straight Premier League title. Even amid high expectations, his consistency and success set him apart as the world’s best.