Since its inception in 1992, the Premier League has witnessed a growing influx of foreign coaches taking the helm of English teams. While many managers from abroad have grappled with the league's demanding nature, often struggling to make their mark, a select few have triumphed.
These elite foreign managers have risen to the challenge, achieving remarkable success, securing prestigious titles, and establishing themselves as legends of the game.
But who are the best foreign Premier League Managers of all-time?
Here Are the Top Foreign Premier League Managers in History
7. Rafa Benitez
As one of the best foreign Premier League Managers of all-time, Rafa Benitez first took charge of Liverpool in 2004 before managing Chelsea and Newcastle United almost a decade later. The Spaniard's most notable period of success in English soccer came during his spell at Anfield when The Reds finished runners-up to Manchester United during a closely fought 2008/09 campaign. Benitez was named Premier League Manager of the Month no less than seven times!
6. Roberto Mancini
Amongst the top foreign managers in Premier League history, Italian coach Roberto Mancini began his reign at Manchester City in 2009 during the infancy of Abu’s Dhabi ownership. He quickly built a team of elite talent with the potential to become world beaters such as Yaya Toure, David Silva and Sergio Aguero.
By his third season in charge, Mancini’s side were ready to challenge bitter rivals and neighbours Manchester United. On a dramatic last day, they ousted the Red Devils to finish top of the pile and lift the Premier League for the very first time.
5. Antonio Conte
As one of the best foreign Premier League Managers of all-time, Antonio Conte has taken charge of two EPL clubs since 2016. He has worked with both Chelsea and later Tottenham Hotspur whilst experiencing mixed results across his spells in English soccer.
Conte arrived at Chelsea and across his debut season made a huge impact. The Blues turned into a winning machine using pragmatic Italian tactics and innovative wingbacks in his system. It led to Chelsea's first Premier League title in six years and inevitably Conte was named Premier League Manager of the Year for 2016.
4. Jurgen Klopp
Jurgen Klopp arrived at Anfield in 2015 following a successful tenure in German football with Borussia Dortmund. He brought with him a ‘gegenpress’ that revolved around intense, high pressing of the opponent to win the ball in advanced areas and exploit mistakes.
Among the most outstanding foreign managers in Premier League history, Klopp continued his long-lasting rivalry with Pep Guardiola as his Liverpool side consistently challenged City for the Premier League title. In 2020, he finally perfected his energetic and fluid team to win the competition with games to spare. Klopp was awarded Premier League Manager of the Year for both 2020 and 2022.
3. Arsene Wenger
As one of the best foreign Premier League Managers of all-time, Arsene Wenger came to Arsenal in 1996, arguably evolving the league's approaches to lifestyle and fitness. The Frenchman spent a total of 22 years at the London club!
Whilst in English soccer, Wenger found great success and secured three Premier League titles from 1998 to 2004. Utilising talents such as Dennis Bergkamp, Patrick Vieira and Thierry Henry, he moulded Arsenal into the formidable side that would eventually produce an ‘invincible’ season. Wenger's team ended the 2003/04 campaign unbeaten after 38 games, a feat not achieved since Preston North End in the late 1800s.
2. Jose Mourinho
Among the greatest foreign managers in Premier League history, José Mourinho stands out for his tenure with three English clubs: most notably Chelsea, as well as Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur. Upon his initial arrival in the Premier League, his overconfidence and perceived arrogance left fans and pundits somewhat bemused.
His most successful and productive periods came during his first spell at Stamford Bridge. Having taken charge as a proven Champions League-winning coach, Mourinho set about transforming his Chelsea team into a near unbeatable force, solid as a defensive unit and with direct attacking flair. They won the league title on three occasions as Mourinho was named Premier League Manager of the Season a total of three times in 2005, 2006 and 2015.
1. Pep Guardiola
Pep Guardiola was always touted as Manchester City’s number-one choice to take charge at the Etihad years before finally doing so in the summer of 2016. Rather predictably, the Spaniard’s vision was clear and his perfected systems effective.
As perhaps the best foreign Premier League Manager of all-time, Guardiola has become a serial winner in England's top flight, season after season demanding his team reach the league's summit.
With superstar signings that include Kevin De Bruyne, Rodri and Erling Haaland, Pep and his Citizens recently secured an unprecedented fourth consecutive Premier League title.
Comments