Hansi Flick, Pep Guardiola, Carlo Ancelotti, Thomas Tuchel

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

September 18, 2025 Kris Isaksen

From tactical masterminds to man-management geniuses, the current landscape of world football boasts an elite group of managers delivering silverware and breaking records. Based on trophies, recent success, longevity, and performance against expectations, here’s a rundown of the top 20 football managers on the planet — starting with number 20 and working our way to the very best.

20. Thomas Frank – Tottenham Hotspur

After a remarkable spell at Brentford, Thomas Frank took the next big step in his career by replacing Ange Postecoglou at Tottenham. Known for his attacking philosophy and player development, he’s now tasked with bringing a new identity to Spurs after years of instability.

19. Eddie Howe – Newcastle United

Eddie Howe continues to defy expectations at Newcastle, having ended the club’s 70-year trophy drought with a League Cup win. His transformation of the Magpies from relegation candidates to European contenders speaks volumes about his managerial prowess.

18. Gian Piero Gasperini – AS Roma

Gasperini's managerial journey finally peaked with silverware, as he led Atalanta to Europa League glory against unbeaten Bayer Leverkusen. Now at Roma, he carries the experience and tactical edge to elevate the capital club to new heights.

17. Julian Nagelsmann – Germany

Though Germany fell short at Euro 2024, Julian Nagelsmann has brought fresh tactical ideas to the national team setup. With talents like Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz, the young coach remains a central figure in Germany’s footballing future.

16. Unai Emery – Aston Villa

Unai Emery delivered Champions League qualification to Aston Villa — a feat few thought possible. Although his side stumbled in Europe, his influence has been immense, revitalising players and restoring belief in a sleeping giant.

15. Enzo Maresca – Chelsea

Enzo Maresca defied doubters in his debut season at Chelsea, leading the Blues to a fourth-place finish and lifting two trophies, including the FIFA Club World Cup. After a rocky pre-season, his turnaround has given Chelsea fans fresh hope.

14. Thomas Tuchel – England

Following a mixed tenure at Bayern Munich, Thomas Tuchel took the reins of the England national team. With only one loss in his first six matches, he’s quickly restored optimism as the Three Lions chase long-awaited silverware.

13. Luis de la Fuente – Spain

Luis de la Fuente guided Spain to a flawless Euro 2024 campaign, winning all seven matches and beating England in the final. His rise through the national ranks has paid dividends, with Spain now back among Europe’s elite.

12. Didier Deschamps – France

A World Cup-winning manager and former top player, Didier Deschamps remains a titan in international football. Despite some recent disappointments, he consistently has France in contention, making them a threat in every tournament.

11. Lionel Scaloni – Argentina

Scaloni has cemented his legacy by winning the World Cup, two Copa Americas, and restoring Argentina’s dominance on the global stage. All achieved before turning 50, his achievements are nothing short of extraordinary.

10. Diego Simeone – Atletico Madrid

Still a master of pragmatism, Diego Simeone guided Atletico Madrid back to Champions League qualification in 2024/25. With a reputation for discipline and tactical organisation, he continues to be the heart of Atleti’s identity.

9. Antonio Conte – Napoli

Conte resurrected his managerial standing at Napoli by winning the Scudetto and adding big names to an already impressive squad. Known for his defensive organisation, he’s once again among Europe’s elite tacticians.

8. Mikel Arteta – Arsenal

Arteta has turned Arsenal into perennial title contenders, but the silverware remains elusive. Despite deep runs in Europe and strong league form, his next challenge is to turn promise into trophies.

7. Xabi Alonso – Real Madrid

Xabi Alonso’s unbeaten run and Bundesliga title with Bayer Leverkusen made him the most in-demand young coach in Europe. Now at Real Madrid, he’s poised to take the next step on one of football’s biggest stages.

6. Carlo Ancelotti – Brazil

Ancelotti’s legendary club career now turns to the international scene as he takes charge of Brazil. With five Champions League titles under his belt, few managers boast his level of pedigree and respect.

5. Simone Inzaghi – Al-Hilal

Inzaghi led Inter Milan to domestic glory and two Champions League finals, before joining Al-Hilal after a heavy European defeat. Even in the Middle East, he’s making waves, notably knocking out Manchester City from the Club World Cup.

4. Hansi Flick – Barcelona

Flick has bounced back in style at Barcelona, winning La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Super Cup in his first season. After his German national team struggles, he’s re-established himself as a world-class tactician.

3. Arne Slot – Liverpool

Slot’s transition from Feyenoord to Liverpool has been seamless, with the Dutchman enjoying the best start in the club’s managerial history. Backed heavily in the transfer market, he’s quickly earned the trust of fans and the board alike.

2. Pep Guardiola – Manchester City

Despite a disappointing 2024/25, Guardiola remains a managerial icon, with four straight Premier League titles and a historic treble behind him. His legacy is firmly intact — but the pressure is mounting to maintain City's dominance.

1. Luis Enrique – Paris Saint-Germain

Luis Enrique guided PSG to a historic treble without Kylian Mbappe, silencing all doubters in the process. With flair, balance, and silverware, he’s currently the most in-form and impactful manager in world football.