Best football coaches in history and their legacy

Football is not only about great players and big trophies. Behind every successful team, there is a smart and visionary coach who builds tactics, motivates players, and makes key decisions. A legendary manager does more than win matches — he creates a system and a mindset that lasts for years.

Some coaches in football history completely changed the game. Their ideas, leadership, and achievements still influence modern football today. 

Here are some of the best football coaches in history and the impact they left behind.

Sir Alex Ferguson

Sir Alex Ferguson is widely regarded as one of the greatest managers of all time. During his 26 years at Manchester United, he won 49 major trophies, including 13 Premier League titles and 2 UEFA Champions League trophies. His ability to rebuild teams while staying competitive for decades made him special.

He trusted young players, built strong dressing room discipline, and created a winning mentality that lasted long after his retirement. His leadership style and consistency set a benchmark for modern football management.

Pep Guardiola

Pep Guardiola transformed modern football with his tactical philosophy. At FC Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Manchester City, his teams became known for possession-based football, quick passing, and high pressing. He has won league titles in Spain, Germany, and England, along with multiple Champions League trophies.

His style influenced coaches around the world and changed how teams control matches. Guardiola’s impact goes beyond trophies — he reshaped tactical thinking in the modern era.

Carlo Ancelotti

Carlo Ancelotti is one of the most successful managers in European football history. He is the only coach to win the UEFA Champions League five times as a manager. He has also won league titles in Europe’s top five leagues, showing his adaptability across different competitions.

Ancelotti is respected for his calm personality and ability to manage superstar players. His flexible tactics and experience in big matches have made him one of the most reliable and successful coaches in football.

Rinus Michels

Rinus Michels is known as the creator of “Total Football,” a revolutionary system where players could change positions and attack fluidly. His work with AFC Ajax and the Netherlands national team changed tactical thinking forever.

His ideas influenced generations of players and coaches. Even today, many modern tactical systems are built on the foundation he created decades ago.

Bob Paisley

Bob Paisley led Liverpool FC during one of the most successful periods in the club’s history. In just nine years, he won six league titles and three European Cups, establishing Liverpool as a European powerhouse.

He was humble but highly effective, building balanced and disciplined teams. His success remains one of the greatest managerial achievements in English football.

José Mourinho

José Mourinho, famously called “The Special One,” won league titles in Portugal, England, Italy, and Spain. He also won the Champions League with two different clubs, proving his ability at the highest level.

Known for tactical discipline and strong defensive organization, Mourinho built teams that performed under pressure. His personality and confidence made him one of the most influential managers of his generation.

Marcelo Bielsa

Marcelo Bielsa may not have as many trophies as others, but his influence on football tactics is huge. His high-intensity pressing and attacking philosophy inspired many modern managers.

Bielsa is respected for his detailed preparation and strong football principles. His impact shows that true legacy is not only about winning trophies but also about inspiring future generations.

Cover Credits - Sky Sports