The 2024-25 European football season delivered tactical revolutions, trophy-winning resurgences, and masterclasses in man-management. From unexpected cup wins to glorious title triumphs, these are the ten managers who outshone the rest – ranked from great to historic.
10. Niko Kovac – Borussia Dortmund
When Niko Kovac took over Borussia Dortmund in January, they were languishing in 11th place and far from their usual competitive standards. After switching to a 3-4-3 formation and revitalizing the attack, he led Dortmund to a top-four finish and a Champions League quarter-final appearance.
9. Nuno Espirito Santo – Nottingham Forest
Nuno inherited a struggling Forest side but turned them into European contenders with smart signings and effective counter-attacking football. His leadership brought the club back to continental action for the first time in three decades, earning him legendary status at the City Ground.
8. Claudio Ranieri – Roma
Ranieri came out of retirement to rescue a faltering Roma, and against all odds, he did just that. He inspired a 19-game unbeaten run and came agonizingly close to Champions League qualification, proving once again why he’s considered a miracle worker.
7. Oliver Glasner – Crystal Palace
Glasner’s Palace started poorly but finished the season in sensational form, securing safety and lifting the FA Cup. The German tactician delivered the club’s first-ever major trophy and reignited belief in South London.
6. Vincenzo Italiano – Bologna
After losing key players and a shaky start, Italiano steered Bologna back on track with clever acquisitions and tactical balance. His biggest triumph came in the Coppa Italia final, where Bologna ended a 51-year wait for silverware.
5. Eddie Howe – Newcastle United
Doubts surrounded Howe at the start of the campaign, but he silenced critics with a domestic cup triumph and a return to the Champions League. Newcastle’s Carabao Cup win and fifth-place finish highlight his growing stature as a top-tier manager.
4. Antonio Conte – Napoli
Conte transformed a broken Napoli into champions once again, guiding them from 10th place to the summit of Serie A. His Premier League imports and tactical rigor revitalized the team, leading to one of the finest achievements of his career.
3. Arne Slot – Liverpool
Succeeding Jurgen Klopp was no easy task, but Slot made it look seamless. With a calm and structured approach, he led Liverpool to a dominant title win, securing the Premier League crown with four games to spare.
2. Hansi Flick – Barcelona
Flick restored Barcelona’s attacking swagger and brought home a domestic double, including a Copa del Rey triumph over Real Madrid. His bold, high-risk philosophy made Barça the most thrilling side in Europe and rekindled memories of their golden eras.
1. Luis Enrique – Paris Saint-Germain
Luis Enrique finally brought unity and identity to PSG, steering them to a domestic double and the Champions League final. With a system-first approach and bold squad changes, he has transformed the Parisians into genuine European powerhouses.
