The Greatest Coaches of All Time: Top 10 Trophy Winners

The world of football has witnessed numerous legendary coaches who have left an indelible mark on the sport. These masterminds have consistently produced winning teams, earning them a place in the annals of football history. Here’s a comprehensive look at the top 10 coaches with the highest number of trophies won.
*1. Sir Alex Ferguson – 49 Trophies*
Sir Alex Ferguson, the iconic Scottish manager, tops the list with an astonishing 49 trophies. During his 27-year tenure at Manchester United (1986-2013), Ferguson won 13 Premier League titles, 2 UEFA Champions Leagues, and 5 FA Cups, cementing his status as one of the greatest.
*2. Carlo Ancelotti – 33 Trophies*
Italian tactician Carlo Ancelotti boasts an impressive 33 trophies. With successful stints at AC Milan (2001-2009), Chelsea (2009-2011), Paris Saint-Germain (2011-2013), Real Madrid (2013-2015), and Bayern Munich (2016-2017), Ancelotti has consistently delivered silverware.
*3. Pep Guardiola – 32 Trophies*
Pep Guardiola, the renowned Spanish coach, has accumulated 32 trophies. His triumphs at Barcelona (2008-2012), Bayern Munich (2013-2016), and Manchester City (2016-present) showcase his adaptability and winning mentality.
*4. Zinedine Zidane – 28 Trophies*
Zinedine Zidane, the French football legend, has secured 28 trophies as a coach. His two stints at Real Madrid (2016-2018, 2019-2021) yielded 2 La Liga titles, 3 Champions League crowns, and 2 Club World Cups.
*5. Jose Mourinho – 27 Trophies*
Portuguese manager Jose Mourinho has collected 27 trophies. His successes at Porto (2002-2004), Chelsea (2004-2007, 2013-2015), Inter Milan (2008-2010), Real Madrid (2010-2013), and Manchester United (2016-2018) demonstrate his versatility.
*6. Udo Lattek – 26 Trophies*
German coach Udo Lattek won 26 trophies during his illustrious career. His tenures at Bayern Munich (1970-1975, 1983-1987), Borussia Mönchengladbach (1975-1979), and Barcelona (1979-1981) showcased his tactical prowess.
*7. Rinus Michels – 25 Trophies*
Dutch legend Rinus Michels secured 25 trophies. His achievements at Ajax (1965-1971, 1975-1976) and Barcelona (1971-1975, 1976-1978) solidified his reputation as a pioneering coach.
*8. Giovanni Trapattoni – 24 Trophies*
Italian coach Giovanni Trapattoni boasts 24 trophies. His successes at AC Milan (1974-1976), Juventus (1976-1986, 1991-1994), Inter Milan (1986-1991), and Bayern Munich (1994-1995) highlight his longevity.
*9. Johan Cruyff – 23 Trophies*
Dutch icon Johan Cruyff won 23 trophies. His innovative approach at Ajax (1977-1978, 1981-1985) and Barcelona (1988-1996) transformed the game.
*10. Helenio Herrera – 22 Trophies*
Argentine coach Helenio Herrera completed the top 10 with 22 trophies. His triumphs at Barcelona (1958-1960, 1980-1981), Inter Milan (1960-1968), and Roma (1968-1973) showcased his tactical acumen.
These coaches have set the benchmark for success, inspiring generations of managers to strive for greatness.
*Honorable Mentions*
Other notable coaches with impressive trophy hauls include:
– Ernst Happel (21 trophies)
– Ottmar Hitzfeld (19 trophies)
– Bob Paisley (18 trophies)
– Arrigo Sacchi (17 trophies)
Their contributions to football’s rich history are undeniable, shaping the sport into what it is today.