Football managers earn vast sums both during and after their careers, but only a select few have built truly enormous fortunes.
Based on estimated earnings, contracts and business ventures, these are the 10 richest football managers in the world in 2026.
Topping the list is Wayne Rooney, whose wealth was largely accumulated during his legendary playing career at Manchester United.
Despite struggling in management and being sacked by Plymouth Argyle in late 2024, Rooney’s estimated net worth stands at a staggering £170million.
Atlético Madrid boss Diego Simeone follows in second place, boosted by his status as the highest-paid manager in world football.
Jose Mourinho and Pep Guardiola are tied in third, both estimated to be worth around £100million, reports Planet Football.
While Guardiola continues to earn huge sums at Manchester City, Mourinho has famously banked massive compensation packages from multiple sackings.
Zinedine Zidane, Steven Gerrard and Sir Alex Ferguson also feature prominently, having combined elite coaching salaries with lucrative playing careers.
Carlo Ancelotti, Jurgen Klopp and Arsene Wenger round out the top 10, proving longevity at the top pays handsomely.
Pep Guardiola Only Third As Rooney Tops The List
Guardiola’s position may surprise many, given his dominance with Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Manchester City.
Read Also: Klopp Set To Accept Real Madrid Job On One Condition
However, Rooney’s peak Premier League wages, endorsements and post-retirement income place him comfortably ahead.
Simeone’s £25.9million annual salary at Atlético Madrid has propelled him above most of his rivals.
Meanwhile, Klopp and Wenger remain among football’s wealthiest figures despite stepping away from day-to-day club management.
With rising salaries and new global roles emerging, this list could look very different again by 2027.
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