The 15 Best Young Managers in World Football Right Now

September 16, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

In modern football, the spotlight is no longer reserved only for the veterans of the game. A new wave of young managers under the age of 45 is reshaping the sport with bold tactics, fresh ideas, and fearless leadership. Some are already lifting major trophies, while others are proving their potential at ambitious clubs. Here’s a look at the 15 best young managers in world football right now.

15. Kieran McKenna

Kieran McKenna has quickly built a reputation as one of the most promising managers in England. After leaving Manchester United’s coaching staff, he guided Ipswich from League One back to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions. While relegation followed, his tactical identity and rise through the ranks suggest he’ll be back at the top level soon.

14. Thiago Motta

Thiago Motta earned praise for his innovative, possession-based approach at Bologna, where he helped talents like Riccardo Calafiori and Joshua Zirkzee shine. His work attracted Juventus, though his tenure there was less successful. Still, his tactical creativity ensures he remains a name to watch for future top jobs.

13. Will Still

Will Still became a media sensation when Reims were fined for his early games without a UEFA Pro License. He impressed with a record unbeaten run in Ligue 1 and later moved to Lens before joining Southampton. At just 32 years old, he is now tasked with bringing the Saints back to the Premier League.

12. Matthias Jaissle

Matthias Jaissle made his name at RB Salzburg, winning multiple domestic titles before moving to Saudi side Al-Ahli. Despite the bold career switch, he led them to third place and an Asian Champions League triumph. At just 37, he already has a proven record of winning and building competitive teams.

11. Cesc Fàbregas

Former midfield maestro Cesc Fàbregas has made a seamless transition into management. As part-owner and head coach of Como, he guided the club to a stable mid-table finish in Serie A after two decades away from the top flight. His intelligence and vision on the pitch are already translating well to the dugout.

10. Domenico Tedesco

Domenico Tedesco rose to prominence with Schalke, guiding them to a remarkable Bundesliga runners-up finish in 2018. He later won the DFB-Pokal with RB Leipzig before stepping into international management with Belgium. Though currently unattached, his track record suggests he won’t be out of work for long.

9. Fabian Hürzeler

Fabian Hurzeler — Photo: Brightonandhovealbion.com

The youngest manager in Premier League history, Fabian Hürzeler took charge of Brighton at just 32 years old. His first season was full of ups and downs but ultimately saw the Seagulls finish eighth, narrowly missing out on Europe. His composure and bold ideas show he could be a long-term success in English football.

8. Edin Terzić

Edin Terzic — Vitalii Vitleo / Shutterstock.com

Edin Terzić is best remembered for leading Borussia Dortmund to the Champions League final in 2024. Despite back-to-back second-place Bundesliga finishes, he stepped down from Dortmund on his own terms. His mix of tactical discipline and player development ensures he will return to a major role soon.

7. Sebastian Hoeneß

Sebastian Hoeness — cristiano barni / Shutterstock.com

Sebastian Hoeneß achieved wonders with Stuttgart, guiding them to a second-place finish in the Bundesliga ahead of Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund. It was the club’s best league performance since 2007 and secured Champions League football. His success has firmly established him among Germany’s most exciting coaches.

6. Rúben Amorim

Rúben Amorim built his reputation in Portugal, winning multiple trophies with Sporting CP, including two league titles. He was chosen to replace Erik ten Hag at Manchester United but endured a tough first season in the Premier League. Backed by major investment, Amorim now has the chance to prove himself at one of the world’s biggest clubs.

5. Andoni Iraola

Andoni Iraola earned recognition at Rayo Vallecano, where he led the club to promotion and a deep Copa del Rey run. At Bournemouth, he initially struggled but eventually turned the team into one of the league’s surprise packages. Notably, his side beat Arsenal home and away in the 2024/25 season.

4. Vincent Kompany

Vincent Kompany impressed by transforming Burnley into a possession-based side that stormed to the Championship title with 101 points. His success led him to Bayern Munich, where he delivered the Bundesliga title in his first season. The former Manchester City captain has quickly established himself as a winner on the sidelines too.

3. Julian Nagelsmann

Julian Nagelsmann has long been considered a managerial prodigy. He guided Hoffenheim and RB Leipzig to new heights before taking charge of Bayern Munich, where he posted a 71% win rate. Now leading the German national team, he reached the Euro 2024 quarterfinals, and at just 37, his future remains incredibly bright.

2. Mikel Arteta

After years as Pep Guardiola’s assistant, Mikel Arteta took charge of Arsenal and has since turned them into consistent Premier League title contenders. He has already won the FA Cup and built a young, dynamic squad capable of challenging Manchester City. A league title would cement his place among Europe’s elite managers.

1. Xabi Alonso

Xabi Alonso stunned the football world by guiding Bayer Leverkusen to an unbeaten Bundesliga title and a domestic double in 2024. His tactical clarity, calm leadership, and modern approach made him one of the hottest managerial prospects in Europe. Real Madrid recognized his talent, appointing him as Carlo Ancelotti’s successor — a role that could define an era.