The financial power in football continues to rise, and it’s not just the players who are benefiting. Managers across the globe are commanding eye-watering salaries, especially as clubs and national teams chase success at any cost. Here’s a breakdown of the 20 top earners in 2025, starting from number 20 and working up to the top spot.
20. Oliver Glasner – £4.6m (Crystal Palace)
Oliver Glasner surprised many when he took the Crystal Palace job, but his impact has been immense. He rewarded the club’s trust by guiding them to their first-ever major trophy with an FA Cup triumph.
19. Thomas Frank – £4.6m (Brentford)
Thomas Frank has turned Brentford into a steady Premier League force, even flirting with European qualification. His progressive style and stability have earned him admirers and a lucrative deal.
18. Ange Postecoglou – £5.2m (Tottenham Hotspur)
Ange brought European success to Spurs with a Europa League title, proving his credentials on the big stage. Despite challenges in North London, his bold style and results delivered silverware.
17. Thomas Tuchel – £6m (England)
Now leading England, Tuchel brings winning experience from top clubs across Europe. With high expectations for success, his salary reflects both his pedigree and the pressure of the job.
16. Arne Slot – £6.4m (Liverpool)
Replacing Jurgen Klopp was never going to be easy, but Arne Slot made it look effortless. Guiding Liverpool to their 20th English title solidified his reputation and earning power.
15. Ruben Amorim – £6.7m (Manchester United)
Tasked with restoring Manchester United’s glory, Ruben Amorim faces immense pressure. Despite a tough season, a summer rebuild gives him a chance to turn things around on a strong salary.
14. Xabi Alonso – £6.7m (Real Madrid)
After a historic season with Bayer Leverkusen, Alonso now leads Real Madrid’s next chapter. With his footballing brain and leadership, he’s aiming to bring European dominance back to the Bernabeu.
13. Vincent Kompany – £7.8m (Bayern Munich)
Kompany took a huge leap from relegated Burnley to Bayern Munich and delivered instantly. His Bundesliga title win in his first season justified Bayern’s faith and generous contract.
12. Laurent Blanc – £8.3m (Al-Ittihad)
Despite recent setbacks in Europe, Laurent Blanc secured a golden opportunity in Saudi Arabia. With a strong wage and high ambitions, he’s aiming to outshine Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr.
11. Unai Emery – £8.3m (Aston Villa)
Unai Emery’s reputation continues to soar as he brings consistent success to Aston Villa. Deep European runs and domestic form have made him a vital and well-paid figure in the Midlands.
10. Carlo Ancelotti – £8.4m (Brazil)
Ancelotti swapped Real Madrid for Brazil in search of World Cup glory. Though not the top-paid, a potential £4.2m bonus for winning the tournament could make his deal legendary.
9. Jose Mourinho – £9.2m (Fenerbahce)
Still one of football’s biggest personalities, Mourinho’s move to Fenerbahce was dramatic. Greeted like royalty, he commands a massive salary and remains a magnet for global attention.
8. Matthias Jaissle – £9.6m (Al-Ahli)
After being sacked by Salzburg, Jaissle has reinvented himself in Saudi Arabia. His young squad now challenges for titles, and his high salary reflects Al-Ahli’s trust in his vision.
7. Luis Enrique – £9.6m (Paris Saint-Germain)
Enrique led PSG to their first Champions League title, completing a stunning treble. His reward is a big salary and growing status as one of Europe’s best tactical minds.
6. David Moyes – £12.5m (Everton)
Returning to Everton, Moyes performed a remarkable rescue act. His experience saved the club from relegation and earned him a premium wage in return.
5. Stefano Pioli – £15.5m (Al-Nassr)
Pioli joined Cristiano Ronaldo’s club with massive expectations. Though results have been mixed, his experience and status earned him a top-tier wage in the Saudi Pro League.
4. Mikel Arteta – £15.6m (Arsenal)
Arteta’s Arsenal are close to major glory, and his new contract reflects the belief in his vision. With bonuses for trophies, his wage could rise even higher very soon.
3. Pep Guardiola – £20.7m (Manchester City)
The mastermind behind Man City’s domination, Pep remains one of the highest earners. His footballing philosophy continues to deliver success, keeping his value sky-high.
2. Simone Inzaghi – £21.8m (Al-Hilal)
After great success at Inter Milan, Inzaghi moved to Al-Hilal for a huge payday. The Saudi club believes he’s the man to bring continental glory, and they’ve paid accordingly.
1. Diego Simeone – £25.9m (Atletico Madrid)
Simeone has been at the top of this list for years—and with good reason. His passion, loyalty, and success at Atletico have made him the highest-paid manager in football once again.
