10 Coaches Taking the World by Storm as Next Wave of Elite Football Managers Emerges

For years, conversations about the best football managers have often revolved around a select few established names.

In this ever-evolving landscape, a new generation of tacticians has emerged, poised to redefine the game and challenge the status quo.

While the likes of Pep Guardiola and Carlo Ancelotti have long dominated the conversation, a fresh crop of tacticians are ready to take their place at the top.

These 10 managers, hailing from diverse backgrounds and employing innovative approaches, are set to become the next wave of elite football managers.

10 managers set to replace the elite tacticians

Xabi Alonso (Bayer Leverkusen)

Xabi Alonso's transition from a legendary midfielder to a promising young manager has been nothing short of remarkable. The Spaniard, who enjoyed a storied playing career with the likes of Liverpool, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, has brought his wealth of experience to Bayer Leverkusen. Under his tutelage, the German club has embarked on a remarkable unbeaten run in the Bundesliga, showcasing a brand of possession-based, high-pressing football that has captivated fans and pundits alike.

Arne Slot (Feyenoord - Liverpool)

Arne Slot's rise to prominence has been nothing short of meteoric. The Dutch tactician has transformed Feyenoord into a formidable force, both domestically and in Europe. Slot's teams are known for their relentless pressing, fluid attacking play and the ability to adapt to different opponents. His tactical flexibility and man-management skills have been instrumental in Feyenoord's recent success, which includes a dominant run in the Eredivisie and an impressive Europa Conference League campaign. Slot's reputation has grown exponentially, and he is reportedly set to take over Liverpool, as per BBC.

Roberto De Zerbi (Brighton and Hove Albion)

Roberto De Zerbi's arrival at Brighton has been a revelation for the Premier League club. The Italian manager, known for his innovative and possession-oriented approach, has transformed the Seagulls into a team playing an attractive attacking brand of football. De Zerbi's ability to get the best out of his players, coupled with his tactical flexibility, has been instrumental in Brighton's impressive performances this season. The club announced on their official website that he would depart at the end of the 2023/24 season.

Ruben Amorim (Sporting CP)

Ruben Amorim's rise to prominence has been nothing short of meteoric. The young Portuguese manager, who took over Sporting CP in 2020, has guided the club to unprecedented success, including a league title and a deep run in the UEFA Champions League. Amorim's tactical versatility, ability to develop young talent, and unwavering commitment to an attacking, possession-based style of play have made him one of the most sought-after managers in the game.

Michel (Girona)

Michel's tenure at Girona has been a revelation for the Spanish club. The former Real Madrid midfielder has transformed the team into a formidable force in La Liga, showcasing a brand of football that is both pragmatic and aesthetically pleasing. His tactical acumen and ability to get the best out of his players have been instrumental in the club's top-four finish impressive performances this season.

Thiago Motta (Bologna)

Thiago Motta's transition from a decorated player to a promising young manager has been a captivating story. The former Barcelona, Inter Milan, and Paris Saint-Germain midfielder has brought his wealth of experience to Bologna, where he has implemented a tactical approach that has earned widespread praise. Motta's teams are known for their possession-based, high-pressing style of play, and his ability to develop young talent has been vital in Bologna's impressive performances this season, qualifying for the UEFA Champions League for the first time since 1964, as per Forbes.

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Thomas Frank (Brentford)

Thomas Frank's work at Brentford has been nothing short of remarkable. The Danish manager has transformed the Premier League club into a formidable force, showcasing a brand of football that is both pragmatic and entertaining. Frank's tactical flexibility, ability to get the best out of his players, and his unwavering commitment to an attacking, possession-based style of play have been instrumental in the Bees' impressive performances.

Daniele De Rossi (Roma)

De Rossi's transition from a legendary player to a promising young manager has been a captivating story. The former Roma and Italy midfielder has brought his wealth of experience to Roma following the dramatic sacking of Jose Mourinho. He has implemented a tactical approach that has earned widespread praise, leading to the club to the semi-finals of the Europa League.

Francesco Farioli (Nice)

Francesco Farioli's rise to prominence has been a testament to his tactical acumen and ability to develop young talent. The Italian manager, who currently plies his trade with Nice, is known for his possession-based, high-pressing style of play. His ability to get the best out of his players has been key in the club's performances in the Ligue 1 this season; He has been linked with a move to Brighton to replace De Zerbi.

Kieran McKenna (Ipswich)

Kieran McKenna has transformed the League One club into a force to be reckoned with, guiding them to promotion to the English top flight. The former Man United man's ability to develop young talent and commitment to an attacking style of play has been visible in Ipswich's impressive run. McKenna's tactical prowess will soon be in high demand from some of Europe's top clubs.

World's top 10 football managers

Sports Brief also previously listed the top 10 football managers worldwide as the new generation begin their ascent to the top of the coaching peak.

Managing a team is a challenging task, as one must negotiate player contracts and plan, strategise, discipline, and motivate players during games.