The 2025/26 season delivered unforgettable moments across Europe, with managers playing a decisive role in shaping their teams’ success. From Champions League glory to domestic dominance and tactical innovation, these coaches stood above the rest.
Here is SCOUT90’s Top 10 Managers of the Year for the 2025/26 season.
1. Luis Enrique (Paris Saint-Germain)
Luis Enrique takes the number one spot after guiding PSG to one of the most successful seasons in the club’s history. The Spanish tactician built a balanced, exciting, and ruthless team capable of dominating both domestically and in Europe. His ability to blend youth with world-class talent made PSG one of football’s most feared sides.
2. Hansi Flick (Barcelona)
Hansi Flick has transformed Barcelona into a powerhouse once again. His attacking philosophy, tactical flexibility, and trust in young players helped Barcelona reclaim their place among Europe’s elite. Under Flick, Barcelona played some of the most entertaining football on the continent.
3. Mikel Arteta (Arsenal)
Mikel Arteta continues to elevate Arsenal. The Gunners remained one of the strongest teams in England and Europe, displaying tactical maturity, consistency, and resilience throughout the season. Arteta’s long-term project has firmly established Arsenal among football’s elite clubs.
4. Michael Carrick
Michael Carrick deserves enormous credit for another impressive campaign. His tactical intelligence and ability to maximize his squad’s potential earned widespread praise. Carrick continues to prove that he belongs among football’s most promising managers.
5. Pep Guardiola (Manchester City)
Even by Guardiola’s extraordinary standards, Manchester City remained one of the most tactically sophisticated teams in world football. His influence on the modern game remains unmatched, and his commitment to innovation continues to inspire managers worldwide.
6. Vincent Kompany (Bayern Munich)
Vincent Kompany enjoyed a strong season at Bayern Munich. The former defender successfully handled the pressure of managing one of Europe’s biggest clubs and delivered stability, strong performances, and silverware.
7. Andoni Iraola
Andoni Iraola’s reputation continues to rise thanks to his aggressive pressing style and exciting brand of football. His teams consistently punch above their weight, making him one of the most respected tactical minds in the game today.
8. Diego Simeone (Atletico Madrid)
Diego Simeone remains one of football’s most consistent managers. Year after year, he keeps Atletico Madrid competitive against Europe’s wealthiest clubs through organization, discipline, and relentless determination.
9. Antonio Conte (Napoli)
Antonio Conte once again demonstrated why he is one of football’s elite managers. His ability to build structured, competitive teams helped Napoli remain among the strongest sides in Italy.
10. Pierre Sage (RC Lens)
Pierre Sage completes the list after an impressive campaign that exceeded expectations. His tactical organization and ability to get the best from his players earned him recognition as one of the season’s surprise managerial success stories.
Final Ranking
- Luis Enrique
- Hansi Flick
- Mikel Arteta
- Michael Carrick
- Pep Guardiola
- Vincent Kompany
- Andoni Iraola
- Diego Simeone
- Antonio Conte
- Pierre Sage
As football continues to evolve, these managers have shown that leadership, tactical intelligence, and adaptability remain the keys to success. Whether lifting trophies or overachieving with limited resources, each coach on this list has left a significant mark on the 2025/26 season.
Do you agree with SCOUT90’s ranking? Let us know your Top 10 managers of the year.