Football managers play a crucial role in the success of a football team. They are responsible for overseeing the tactical and strategic aspects of the game, training and developing players, and making important decisions during matches. Their salaries vary greatly depending on several factors such as the level of the team, the head coach's experience and track record, the financial strength of the club, and the country or league in which they work.
In recent years, there has been a trend of increasing salaries for football managers, especially in the top leagues like the English Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, or the Bundesliga. Some elite managers have even become among the highest-paid individuals in the sporting world.
It's worth mentioning that the wages can fluctuate greatly depending on the specific circumstances, including the manager's achievements and the financial capabilities of the club.
Let's take a look at the list of the top 10 highest-paid football head coaches in the world!
*The information regarding manager salaries can change over time as the football landscape evolves, new contracts are negotiated, and financial circumstances shift within the industry.
Who are the top 10 highest-paid football managers in 2024?
Arne Slot
Current club: Liverpool
Salary per year: £6.8m
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Arne Slot was appointed as the head coach of Liverpool following Jurgen Klopp's departure ahead of the 2024/25 season.
Luis Enrique
Current club: PSG
Salary per year: £7.5m
Luis Enrique was appointed as Paris Saint German manager in 2023. They won the Ligue 1 2023-24 title as well as Coupe de France and Trophee des Champions.
Jorje Jesus
Current club: Alhilal
Salary per year: £8.4m
Jorje Jesus has been Al-Hilal manager since 2023. During this season, Jesus' side are currently leading the Saudi Pro League table.
Jose Mourinho
Current club: Fenerbahce
Salary per year: £8.9m
The Special One has been a manager of many teams from different leagues and now it is time to conquer the Turkish league.
Carlo Ancelotti
Current club: Real Madrid
Salary per year: £9.6m
Image Source: Getty Images
With a wealth of experience managing teams, Ancelotti continues to bring success to the Real Madrid team even in the most unexpected situations.
Many times the boss was linked with a move to the Brazil national team, however, he still remains committed to his role at the Spanish side.
Under the leadership of Ancelotti, Real Madrid secured La Liga title for the 2023-24 campaign, while they are still competing for the Champions League title in the semi-finals.
Diego Simeone
Current club: Atletico Madrid
Salary per year: £10.1m
Simeone has been with Atletico Madrid since 2011. The manager has won La Liga two times in his career with Atletico as well as Copa del Rey once and UEFA Champions League runner up twice.
Mikel Arteta
Current club: Arsenal
Salary per year: £15m
Image Source: Getty Images
Mikel Arteta has become one of the standout managers in the world of football following his appointment as Arsenal manager back in 2019. The previous year the Gunners finished second in the Premier League and secured a Champions League spot after a long-term break.
In the 2023/24 campaign, Arteta's team showcased their brilliance both in domestic and European competitions. Unfortunately for the team, they were 2nd in the league again and ended their Champions League run in the semi-finals.
Next term is going to be even more challenging for Arteta and for Arsenal, however, there is a belief that the Spaniard will finally bring new trophies back at the Emirates Stadium.
Pep Guardiola
Current club: Manchester City
Salary per year: £20 million
Image Source: Getty Images
Pep Guardiola is currently the second highest-paid manager in the Premier League.
Since his arrival at Manchester City in 2016, he has transformed not only City but the whole league.
Under Guardiola's leadership, the Citizens have secured five Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and four League Cups. In addition, Guardiola guided the team to the UEFA Champions League final against Inter Milan where the Citizens lifted their first-ever title in the club's history to complete a Treble for the 2022/23 season.
In the 2023/24 campaign, City broke another record, becoming the first club in English top-flight to win four successive Premier League tropies.
Roberto Mancini
Current club: Saudi Arabia
Salary per year: £21.5m
Mancini ended his tenior as Saudi Arabia manager last month, however, as of now he is still the highest paid manager.