Football managers live under immense pressure – results dictate their future, and job security is almost non-existent. Yet at the elite level, the rewards are extraordinary, with top clubs and national teams paying eye-watering salaries to secure the best tactical minds. From veterans in Europe to ambitious projects in Saudi Arabia, here are the 20 best-paid managers in the world in 2025.
20. Jose Mourinho – £5.2m
Jose Mourinho has returned to Benfica, the club where his managerial career first began. At 62, the Portuguese tactician is determined to finish unfinished business at home, earning £5.2m a year.
19. Antonio Conte – £5.2m
Back in Italy with Napoli, Antonio Conte has immediately delivered success by reclaiming the Serie A title. His sharp tactical mind ensures his £5.2m wage looks like a bargain.
18. Thomas Tuchel – £6m
Former Chelsea and Bayern Munich boss Thomas Tuchel now leads England. With a yearly salary of £6m, he carries the weight of ending the Three Lions’ long wait for a major trophy.
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17. Arne Slot – £6.4m
Replacing Jurgen Klopp was no easy feat, yet Arne Slot has already guided Liverpool to another league title. The Dutchman’s £6.4m salary reflects his growing reputation as one of the world’s best.
16. Hansi Flick – £6.5m
Hansi Flick has found stability at Barcelona after mixed spells with Bayern Munich and Germany. His £6.5m contract rewards his role in shaping the Catalan club’s new era.
15. Ruben Amorim – £6.7m
Ruben Amorim took on one of football’s toughest jobs when he joined Manchester United. Despite a turbulent season, his £6.7m wage underlines the faith in his ability to rebuild.
14. Xabi Alonso – £6.7m
After guiding Bayer Leverkusen to a historic Bundesliga title, Xabi Alonso was handed the Real Madrid job. At £6.7m per year, he is tasked with restoring Los Blancos’ European dominance.
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13. Vincent Kompany – £7.8m
Vincent Kompany’s swift move from relegated Burnley to Bayern Munich shocked many, but he delivered instant success. His £7.8m salary is a strong reward for his Bundesliga triumph.
12. Thomas Frank – £8m
Thomas Frank transformed Brentford before moving to Tottenham in 2025. His £8m deal marks a major leap in recognition for the Danish coach.
11. Laurent Blanc – £8.3m
Laurent Blanc has revived his career in Saudi Arabia with Al-Ittihad. The Frenchman now earns £8.3m annually as he battles giants like Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr.
10. Unai Emery – £8.3m
Unai Emery continues to thrive at Aston Villa, taking the club deep into European competition. His £8.3m salary highlights the club’s trust in his proven pedigree.
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9. Carlo Ancelotti – £8.4m
Carlo Ancelotti swapped Real Madrid for Brazil, becoming national team coach. On £8.4m a year, he hopes to lead the Seleção to another World Cup crown.
8. Matthias Jaissle – £9.6m
The young German coach Matthias Jaissle is now thriving at Al-Ahli. His £9.6m wage reflects Saudi Arabia’s ambition to lure top managers.
7. Luis Enrique – £9.6m
Luis Enrique has already delivered a treble for Paris Saint-Germain. On £9.6m a year, his goal is now to cement PSG as Europe’s most dominant force.
6. Jorge Jesus – £10.4m
At 71, Jorge Jesus continues to command huge respect – and huge wages. Leading Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr, he earns £10.4m a year.
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5. David Moyes – £12.5m
David Moyes made a stunning return to Everton, lifting the club from crisis to stability. His £12.5m salary rewards his experience and steady leadership.
4. Mikel Arteta – £15.6m
Mikel Arteta has transformed Arsenal into genuine title contenders once again. His new contract sees him pocket £15.6m per season, reflecting his importance in North London.
3. Pep Guardiola – £20.7m
Manchester City’s dominance under Pep Guardiola shows no signs of slowing down. The Spaniard earns £20.7m annually as he chases further glory.
2. Simone Inzaghi – £21.8m
After his success with Inter Milan, Simone Inzaghi accepted a huge offer from Al-Hilal. Now on £21.8m a year, he has become the second highest-paid manager in the world.
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1. Diego Simeone – £25.9m
Diego Simeone remains the highest-paid manager in football. The Atletico Madrid legend earns £25.9m each year, continuing his long reign in the Spanish capital.
