Thomas Tuchel, Carlo Ancelotti, Didier Dechamps

The 13 highest-paid international managers in world football

February 15, 2026 Oliver Obel

International football may not run week after week like the club game, but the stakes could hardly be higher. With World Cups, Euros, Copa America and AFCON titles on the line, national team managers carry the weight of entire countries on their shoulders. And while their schedules may be less demanding than those in domestic football, their salaries show just how valuable success on the global stage has become. From rising tactical minds to legendary serial winners, these are the highest-paid international bosses in the world right now. Starting from the bottom of the list, here is the full ranking.

13. Hajime Moriyasu (Japan) – £871,620

Hajime Moriyasu may be the lowest-paid manager in the top 13, but his reputation in Japan remains extremely strong. Appointed back in 2018, he has overseen one of the most competitive eras in the nation’s football history. His side earned worldwide admiration at the 2022 World Cup after beating both Germany and Spain in the group stage. Moriyasu has built a disciplined and fearless squad capable of upsetting the very best. With another World Cup on the horizon, Japan will hope his steady leadership continues to pay off.

12. Luis de la Fuente (Spain) – £1.74 million

Luis de la Fuente has quietly turned Spain into one of the most exciting teams in world football again. Despite earning far less than many of his peers, his impact has been immediate and significant. After taking over in 2022, he guided La Roja to Nations League glory in 2023 before winning Euro 2024 in Berlin. With young stars like Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams thriving under his guidance, Spain look built for long-term success. His salary may be modest, but his achievements are anything but.

11. Gustavo Alfaro (Paraguay) – £2.18 million

Gustavo Alfaro is perhaps the least famous name on this list, yet he has quickly made his mark with Paraguay. Taking charge in the summer of 2024, he arrived with vast experience from South America and beyond. His record has been steady rather than spectacular, but he has already led Paraguay toward qualification for the 2026 World Cup. That alone has brought renewed optimism to a nation desperate for a return to the global stage. Alfaro now has the chance to prove he belongs among the elite.

10. Ronald Koeman (Netherlands) – £2.61 million

Ronald Koeman remains one of the most recognisable figures in European football, both as a player and a manager. Having worked under legends like Johan Cruyff and Rinus Michels, expectations were always high for his coaching career. His Netherlands side has shown flashes of quality, but consistency has sometimes been lacking given the talent available. Still, Koeman continues to command a strong salary on the international stage. The Dutch will be hoping he can turn promise into silverware in the coming years.

9. Marcelo Bielsa (Uruguay) – £2.61 million

Marcelo Bielsa’s influence on football tactics is almost unmatched, and Uruguay have benefited from his arrival. Appointed in May 2023, the Argentine was brought in to steady the ship and bring fresh intensity to the squad. In a short space of time, he has already improved their competitiveness against top opposition. Bielsa’s demanding style has given Uruguay a sharper edge, and his record has been impressive so far. For a nation of Uruguay’s size, having a coach of his stature is a major statement.

8. Lionel Scaloni (Argentina) – £2.61 million

Lionel Scaloni will forever be remembered in Argentina after delivering World Cup glory in Qatar. Once a relatively unknown managerial figure, he has transformed into a national hero in just a few years. Under his leadership, Argentina have played with balance, belief and a winning mentality, spearheaded by Lionel Messi. Scaloni’s calm authority has been central to their recent dominance on the international stage. At just 47, he could remain in charge for many years to come.

7. Didier Deschamps (France) – £3.31 million

Didier Deschamps is one of the most accomplished international managers of the modern era. Since taking over France in 2012, he has guided them through triumphs and heartbreak, including winning the 2018 World Cup. Even after falling short at Euro 2024, he remains hugely respected within the French setup. His longevity is rare at this level, and his salary reflects his status as a proven winner. The 2026 World Cup could yet provide one final chapter in his remarkable tenure.

6. Roberto Martinez (Portugal) – £3.5 million

Roberto Martinez has enjoyed a fascinating coaching journey, and his move to Portugal has placed him among the highest earners in international football. After spells with Everton and Belgium, he was trusted with a squad filled with attacking talent and high expectations. His early record has been excellent, with Portugal winning the vast majority of matches under his guidance. Managing Cristiano Ronaldo and a new generation of stars is no easy task, but Martinez has handled it well so far. Portugal will believe he could take them deep into major tournaments.

5. Fabio Cannavaro (Uzbekistan) – £3.5 million

Fabio Cannavaro’s presence on this list is one of the most surprising stories in world football. The former Ballon d’Or-winning defender has taken his managerial career across Europe and Asia, but nothing compares financially to his current role. Appointed by Uzbekistan in late 2025, Cannavaro is earning an enormous wage for an international manager outside the traditional powerhouses. His start has been promising, with three wins in his first four matches. Uzbekistan will hope his legendary defensive pedigree can inspire a historic breakthrough.

4. Julian Nagelsmann (Germany) – £4.2 million

Julian Nagelsmann is widely regarded as one of the brightest managerial minds of his generation. After making his name in club football, he took over Germany in 2023 with the task of restoring pride to the national team. His tenure has been mixed, but there is no doubt the potential is enormous. With talents like Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz at his disposal, Germany are building toward something exciting. Nagelsmann is paid accordingly, reflecting both his reputation and the expectations that come with the job.

3. Mauricio Pochettino (United States) – £4.53 million

Mauricio Pochettino’s move into international football came as a major headline, especially with the United States preparing to host the 2026 World Cup. Known for his Premier League work with Tottenham and Chelsea, he arrived with huge attention and pressure. His early months included some setbacks, but the USMNT remain a squad full of promise. Pochettino’s salary underlines how ambitious the American project has become. With the home tournament approaching, the spotlight will only grow brighter.

2. Thomas Tuchel (England) – £5.06 million

Thomas Tuchel became England manager after Gareth Southgate’s departure, inheriting a talented squad still chasing its first major trophy in decades. The former Chelsea and Bayern Munich boss was appointed with one clear mission: deliver silverware. His start has been outstanding, with England enjoying a near-perfect run in qualifiers. Tuchel’s deal was extended through 2028, showing the FA’s belief in his long-term vision. With expectations sky-high, his reign could define a generation of English football.

1. Carlo Ancelotti (Brazil) – £8.28 million

Carlo Ancelotti sits comfortably at the top of the salary list, earning more than any other international manager in world football. The Italian legend, whose trophy collection spans decades, has taken on one of the most prestigious jobs in the sport. Brazil have turned to his calm authority and elite experience in hopes of returning to their glory days. With stars like Vinicius Jr and Raphinha leading the next generation, Ancelotti’s challenge is immense but fitting. His enormous wage reflects not only his reputation, but the size of Brazil’s ambition.