50 Best Managers in World Football Right Now

"I believe the target of anything in life should be to do it so well that it becomes an art"—Arsene Wenger.

No success attained by those in this list has been achieved without a dedication to craft similar to that of the Arsenal boss.

And although every manager included here will have wildly contrasting approaches to the game, they all share one, very common trait—the desire to win.

In compiling a list of the 50 greatest of the profession, and then attempting to put them into a definitive order, a simple equation has been used to complete this mammoth task.

The world's best will each receive a score out of ten in four different categories—Success, Consistency, Longevity and Current Reputation, with the total score then deciding each manager's placement. The latter category will prove the deciding factor in case of a tiebreak.

But if that doesn't make much sense now, have no fear, it will soon.

Of course, rating a manager's success is relative. Take David Moyes for example. Whilst at Everton, silverware has proved hard to come by, but in terms of exceeding expectations on a minimal budget, the Scotsman has been very successful indeed at Goodison Park.

But winning the Premier League or the World Cup will also weigh more heavily than say, an Eredivisie title.

Currently unemployed bosses such as Pep Guardiola and Rafa Benitez will be considered; however, the officially retired, such as Gerard Houllier and Luis Cubilla, will not.

Naturally, there is no right or wrong way to assess every contender's career achievements, and a list like this is designed to spark debate, rather than end it.

But enough of my preamble, here are Bleacher Report's 50 Best Managers in World Football.

50. Lars Lagerback

The Swedish national team manager between 2000 and 2009, Lars Lagerback has now taken charge of European minnows Iceland in a bid to lead the country to its first major international tournament.

With "The Blue-Yellow," Lagerback took the side to five consecutive major tournaments, guiding his team out of the 2002 World Cup "Group of Death," to the quarterfinals of the 2004 Euros and to the knockout stage of the 2006 World Cup.

"It's difficult to find someone with more knowledge about international football because he's been in it for so long a time and did so well [with Sweden]"—Sven-Goran Erikkson.

Success: 7, Consistency: 7, Longevity: 7, Current Reputation: 7.

Total: 28/40

49. Massimiliano Allegri

Currently struggling to stay employed at Milan, Massimiliano Allegri is nonetheless an exceptionally talented young manager who has been gradually working his way up the Italian football ranks since beginning his managerial career at Serie C2 side Aglianese.

His greatest achievement was in leading the Rossoneri to their first Serie A title in seven years 2011. But the exceptional work done at previous clubs Sassuolo and Cagliari should also be acknowledged.

A journeyman as both a player and now as a coach, it wouldn't come as a surprise to many if Allegri is to be found in pastures new by the end of the current season.

Success: 7, Consistency: 7, Longevity: 7, Current Reputation: 7.

Total: 28/40

48: Kurban Berdyev

The only Turkmenistani manager on this list, the experienced Kurban Berdyev is an inclusion for his transformation of Russian club Rubin Kazan from second division also-rans, to back-to-back Russian Premier League champions in 2008 and 2009.

A very religious man, Berdyev is known for always having prayer beads on his person, often keeping them in his hands during games.

"Football in Russia is progressing. Just the fact that we participated in the Champions League group stage, this is a big step forward for our team and our football"—Berdyev.

Success: 7, Consistency: 7, Longevity: 8, Current Reputation: 7.

Total: 29/40

47. Ralf Rangnick

Currently taking a break from the game for health reasons, Ralf Rangnick made his name as manager at VfB Stuttgart, before successful spells at Hannover 96, Schalke and Hoffenheim followed.

His achievements at the latter were particularly eye-catching, leading the completely unheralded lower-league team into the Bundesliga, impressing many with his side's attractive style of football.

As you will soon find out, Rangnick is not the first coach to have made the transition from school teacher to world football manager.

Success: 7, Consistency: 8, Longevity: 7, Current Reputation: 7.

Total: 29/40

46. Frank Rijkaard

Ex-Barcelona boss Frank Rijkaard has since struggled to replicate his success with the Blaugrana, having left the prestigious club in 2008 after five years of fine service.

Whilst at the Camp Nou, Rijkaard won two La Liga titles as well as the 2005/06 UEFA Champions League.

"He was the man who believed in me, he gave me the chance to start at Barca. We won glory with Rijkaard and for that I can never forget he was a inspirational coach, and I will always remember and thank him for everything he has done for my career"—Lionel Messi.

Success: 8, Consistency: 7, Longevity: 7, Current Reputation: 7.

Total: 29/40

45. Diego Simeone

Winner of the UEFA Cup as a player whilst at Inter, Diego Simeone's fondness for the trophy has carried into his managerial career, recently claiming glory in the tournament's current incarnation, the Europa League, with Atletico Madrid.

Still only 42, if his success with Los Colchoneros continues, a move to one of the continent's very top teams beckons.

"Passing a year together has helped us to know and also adapt to the ideas [Simeone] has, and especially to assimilate his passion for the sport that has helped us greatly improve"—Falcao.

Success: 7, Consistency: 8, Longevity: 6, Current Reputation: 8.

Total: 29/40

44. Harry Redknapp

Whether or not Tottenham Hotspur were right to give Harry Redknapp the sack this summer is a question for another article.

What cannot be denied is his revitalisation of the club, and development of players such as Gareth Bale and Luka Modric. Whilst at West Ham in the 90's, he also oversaw the emergence of a golden crop of English talent such as Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Michael Carrick and Joe Cole.

"He has the experience and personality and the knowledge of the game. He has changed the fortunes of every club he has been at"—Sir Alex Ferguson.

Success: 7, Consistency: 8, Longevity: 8, Current Reputation: 7.

Total: 30/40

43. Claudio Ranieri

Known as the "Tinkerman," Claudio Ranieri's time at some of Europe's finest clubs has certainly seen its fair share of ups and downs.

Napoli, Fiorentina, Valencia, Atletico Madrid, Chelsea, Parma, Juventus, Roma and Inter have all benefited, or suffered as the case may be, from his services. Ranieri is currently on course to lead AS Monaco back to Ligue 1, with the club having toiled in France's second division since last year.

"My only technical adviser is my mother. When I told her that Damien had injured his shoulder again, she said 'oh no!' Who should replace him? I will call her before the game to ask"—Ranieri.

Success: 7, Consistency: 7, Longevity: 9, Current Reputation: 7.

Total: 30/40

42. Martin O'Neill

The stern-faced Martin O'Neill is one of the most under-appreciated managers in Britain—his record at Leicester City, Celtic and Aston Villa speaks for itself.

During his five years in Scotland with The Bhoys, O'Neill led the side to three league titles, winning 213 games out of a possible 282 in the process.

Now at English side Sunderland, he has led the Tyne and Wear club out of possible relegation danger, developing the team into an efficient, well-functioning XI capable of beating the country's best.

Success: 7, Consistency: 8, Longevity: 7, Current Reputation: 8.

Total: 30/40



41. Slaven Bilic

A fashionable name in European football at the moment, the 44-year-old Slaven Bilic is currently turning Lokomotiv Moscow into a viable threat in the Russian Premier League.

But the Croatian coach's most notable achievement to date was in leading his national team into the quarterfinals of the 2008 European Championships, having eliminated England in the qualifying stages.

He is the most successful manager in The Blazers' history, having won 42 of his 66 matches, losing only nine.

Success: 7, Consistency: 8, Longevity: 7, Current Reputation: 8.

Total: 30/40

40. Julio Cesar Falcioni

The Argentine coach Julio Cesar Falcioni has completely transformed the fortunes of famous club Boca Juniors since taking over early last year.

Los Xeneizes went unbeaten through the Primera Division's Apertura in 2011/12, also setting records for their excellent defensive record.

Falcioni has given the impatient fans of Boca reason to be cheerful: His 4-4-2 diamond shape produces at times, quite exhilarating football.

Success: 7, Consistency: 8, Longevity: 7, Current Reputation: 8.

Total: 30/40

39. Martin Jol

Though he has collected little in the way of silverware during his managerial career, Martin Jol is one of the most highly respected men in the profession.

His Hamburger side won 32 of 53 games with Jol at the helm, whilst at Ajax, the Dutch side won 50 of 70. Now making the most of limited resources at southwest London club Fulham, the 56-year-old is showing no signs of slowing down.

"I know the coach, he trusts me, he trusts my ability. I feel good if the coach trusts the way I play"—Dimitar Berbatov.

Success: 6, Consistency: 8, Longevity: 8, Current Reputation: 8.

Total: 30/40

38. Unai Emery

That Valencia have regularly been recognised as the number three team in Spain is in no small part due to the role played by former manager Unai Emery.

The team's excellent consistency under Emery saw them finish third behind the powerhouses of Barcelona and Real Madrid for three straight seasons between 2010 and 2012.

Now at Russian side Spartak Moscow, Emery continues to give Barca scares, almost upsetting Tito Vilanova's team in a recent Champions League clash.

Success: 7, Consistency: 9, Longevity: 6, Current Reputation: 8.

Total: 30/40

37. Walter Mazzarri

Serie A side Napoli continue to improve under boss Walter Mazzarri, though the Naples-based club most recent fifth-placed Serie A finish failed to reflect the team's efficient playing style and well-considered approach to football.

In 2007/08, Mazzarri also led Sampdoria to an impressive seventh in the league, reigning in the erratic talents of Antonio Cassano along the way.

"Since [Walter Mazzarri] arrived, he has added great value to the squad. He's got results, guided us to Europe and is an example of what longevity can achieve"—Marek Hamsik.

Success: 7, Consistency: 8, Longevity: 7, Current Reputation: 8.

Total: 30/40

36. Laurent Blanc

On the pitch, Laurent Blanc was a tactical general, leading by example from the back.

As a coach, he continues to show an impressive acumen and approach to the game, his most notable achievement being his Ligue 1 trophy-winning campaign with Bordeaux in 2008/09.

"When Laurent played in Manchester he followed our training methods very carefully. That's very intelligent and obviously he has qualities as a coach because he has made Les Bleus a winning team again"—Sir Alex Ferguson.

Although Blanc stepped down from the job this summer, he remains one of the most highly- sought-after managers in world football.

Success: 7, Consistency: 8, Longevity: 6, Current Reputation: 9.

Total: 30/40

35. Luiz Felipe Scolari

World Cup-winning coach Luiz Felipe Scolari may not currently be considered one of the finest of his profession, but his record is no doubt impressive.

"Big Phil" has won silverware in his native Brazil with Gremio, Palmeiras and Cruzeiro, as well as the big one with the national team in 2002.

"Brazil won’t even get past the [2002 World Cup] group stages"—Pele. Oops.

Success: 9, Consistency: 7, Longevity: 9, Current Reputation: 6.

Total: 31/40

34. Felix Magath

German club VfL Wolfsburg's prodigal son, Felix Magath has never left the country to manage elsewhere, but has nevertheless remained at the top level since taking over at Hamburger in 1995.

He has won the Bundesliga three times—with Bayern Munich (twice), and somewhat unexpectedly with Wolfsburg in 2009.

He has come in for criticism, though, in the past due to his strict, aggressive style of man-management. His managerial approach was once linked with Sebastian Deisler’s premature retirement due to depression in 2007, and the tragic suicide of keeper Robert Enke in 2009. (via Eurosport).

Success: 8, Consistency: 7, Longevity: 9, Current Reputation: 7.

Total: 31/40

33. Rafa Benitez

Although Rafa Benitez seems to be struggling to find decent employment at present, one shouldn't overlook his fine track record at both Valencia and Liverpool.

At the former he won the La Liga twice, as well as the UEFA Cup, whilst he temporarily brought the good days back to Anfield, sensationally winning the UEFA Champions League in 2005, and leading the club to its best league-points finish for over a decade in 2009.

"You have to take your hat off to him. He’s one of the best managers there is. Rafa is the type that when you finish a game as man-of-the-match having scored three goals, he won’t even mention it. Instead, he’ll mention that you never used your left foot at a certain point"—Steven Gerrard.

Success: 9, Consistency: 8, Longevity: 7, Current Reputation: 7.

Total: 31/40

32. Bruce Arena

The USA's only representative on this list, Bruce Arena is without doubt the premier manager of his generation.

His eight-year stint coaching the national team transformed them from world football laughing stocks into a well-respected team capable of springing a few shocks in major tournaments.

Three-time winner of the MLS Cup, Arena will instead be best remembered for leading USA to a shock quarterfinals run in the 2002 World Cup.

Success: 7, Consistency: 8, Longevity: 8, Current Reputation: 8.

Total: 31/40

31. Muricy Ramalho

Current Santos manager Muricy Ramalho is one of the most successful in Brazilian football, having won the Campeonato Brasileiro Serie A four times, the Campeonato Gaucho twice, the Campeonato Paulista twice, and the Copa Libertadores for the first time only last year.

His career began when he took over the reigns at storied club Sao Paulo back in 1994, and has never been far from the domestic spotlight since.

"A football team only builds confidence on winning performances"—Ramalho.

Success: 8, Consistency: 7, Longevity: 8, Current Reputation: 8.

Total: 31/40

30. Fatih Terim

Coaching legend Fatih Terim is the godfather of domestic football in Turkey, having won the Super Lig with Galatasaray four straight years in the late 90's.

Now back home with the club after a seven-year absence, Terim led the Lions back to glory last season, finishing nine points ahead of second-place Fenerbahce.

Galatasaray most recently gave Manchester United a scare in the first Champions League group game of their current campaign, going down, perhaps undeservedly, 1-0 at Old Trafford.

Success: 8, Consistency: 7, Longevity: 8, Current Reputation: 8.

Total: 31/40

29. Bert Van Marwijk

Bert van Marwijk's appointment to the Netherlands national team post in 2008 came as quite a shock to some.

Sure, the aging coach had led Dutch team Feyenoord to an impressive second-place position in the Eredevisie the season before, making the most of a squad full of young talent. But in truth, two-and-a-half up-and-down years at Borussia Dortmund between 2004 and 2006 had hardly seemed to put him at the front of the queue.

But van Marwijk proved many wrong with his team's run to the World Cup final in 2010, and came as close as can be to lifting the holy grail, were it not for some late Andres Iniesta heroics.

Success: 8, Consistency: 7, Longevity: 8, Current Reputation: 8.

Total: 31/40

28. Manuel Pellegrini

Despite finishing with a superb 96 points in the 2009/10 season, Real Madrid parted ways with then-boss Manuel Pellegrini that summer to facilitate the arrival of Jose Mourinho.

The Chilean manager worked miracles at Villarreal before making the move to the Bernabeu, leading the Yellow Submarine to the Champions League semifinals in 2006.

Now in charge of the improving Malaga, 59-year-old Pellegrini's managerial pedigree only improves with age.

Success: 7, Consistency: 8, Longevity: 8, Current Reputation: 8.

Total: 31/40

27. Otto Rehhagel

Otto Rehhagel masterminded one of the biggest upsets in world football history in 2004, when he led the unfancied Greece national team to European Championship glory.

He has won more Bundesliga games than any other coach (387), claiming domestic glory on three occasions with Werder Bremen (twice) and Kaiserslautern.

Known for his side's stingy defences and rigid structure, Rehhagel is as tough-as-nails as his team's play.

Success: 8, Consistency: 8, Longevity: 9, Current Reputation: 7.

Total: 32/40

26. Dick Advocaat

Dick Advocaat's managerial journey somewhat resembles a season of "The Amazing Race." He has coached in Belgium, Scotland, UAE, South Korea and Russia, but is currently enjoying his second stint at PSV.

During his long and varied career, Advocaat has won the Eredivisie, the Scottish Premier League (twice), Russian Premier League and the UEFA Cup.

"The players do not have to be my friend. I’ve been called a negative coach but I prefer to work with forward-thinking players"—Advocaat.

Success: 8, Consistency: 7, Longevity: 9, Current Reputation: 8.

Total: 32/40

25. Roy Hodgson

6-3-0. Roy Hodgson's England side may have crashed out of the recent European Championships a tad prematurely, but to say that the experienced boss has gotten his tenure in the most pressurized job in football off to a poor start, would be way off the mark.

But Hodgson doesn't make 25th on this list for his recent accomplishments for the national team, but rather for his consistently low-key successes throughout his 36-year career.

A legend in Swedish football, Hodgson revolutionised football tactics in the country whilst at five-time Allsvenskan-winning Malmo in the late-80's.

He also led Switzerland to its first major tournament appearance for 28 years, taking the minnows to the 1994 World Cup, eventually making the Round of 16 of the competition.

Success: 7, Consistency: 8, Longevity: 9, Current Reputation: 8.

Total: 32/40

24. Oscar Tabarez

Known as "The Teacher," Oscar Tabarez is currently in charge of one of the fastest improving national teams in world football—Uruguay.

Having led La Celeste to an unexpected fourth place at the 2010 World Cup, Tabarez gave his country an encore to remember with his team's Copa America victory last year.

"Reality is stranger than fiction a lot of the time, and that’s the case here, and with the Uruguay team in general lately"—Tabarez.

Success: 8, Consistency: 7, Longevity: 9, Current Reputation: 8.

Total: 32/40

23. Didier Deschamps

The "water-carrier" no more, Didier Deschamps is quickly forging a reputation as one of the elite, young football managers in Europe.

Rewarded for a relatively successful spell at Marseille, during which he led the team to the Champions League quarterfinals, Deschamps has now taken the poison chalice that is the France national team job, as he tries to succeed where many before him have failed.

"Life as a coach is full of frustrations"—Deschamps. Well put, Didier.

Success: 7, Consistency: 9, Longevity: 7, Current Reputation: 9.

Total: 32/40

22. David Moyes

The king of making the most of a tight budget, the three-time LMA Manager of the Year David Moyes' legend only grows with every passing season.

One of the most astute transfer window specialists, the hard-nosed Scotsman has brought countless talented players to Merseyside on the cheap, crafting a competitive team for peanuts, year-in, year-out.

"'My compliments go to David Moyes, he has done a massive job there. He has put a lot of dedication in"—Arsene Wenger.

Success: 7, Consistency: 9, Longevity: 7, Current Reputation: 9.

Total: 32/40

21. Luciano Spalletti

Zenit St. Petersburg boss Luciano Spalletti is a rather eccentric coach with a penchant for attacking football.

The Russian club has won back-to-back Premier League trophies with Spalletti in charge, and have become a regular threat in continental competition.

Now highly-sought after in his home country, the Italian manager continues to commit his future to the Zenitchiki, resisting the temptation to abandon a fantastic, burgeoning project in the deep throws of Eastern Europe.

Success: 7, Consistency: 8, Longevity: 8, Current Reputation: 9.

Total: 32/40

20. Antonio Conte

Juventus legend Antonio Conte returned home last summer to take over the team that had made his name as a player.

Brief, relatively disappointing spells at Bari and Atalanta were followed by a promotion-winning campaign at Siena—enough to persuade Juve club president Andrea Agnelli to appoint the then 41-year-old the mammoth task of recovering a domestic dominance that had been lost to the Milanese clubs in years past.

Conte repaid the faith put in him, and then some, leading the Bianconeri to unbeaten Serie A glory last season.

He is a meticulous, dedicated leader, devoted to nights in the office watching past game footage, whilst translating his perfect-passing football concepts onto the pitch in the day.

Success: 7, Consistency: 9, Longevity: 6, Current Reputation: 10.

Total: 32/40

19. Jupp Heynckes

Jupp Heynckes is often the forgotten man in world football.

But considering the fact that he has managed at the highest level for over 30 years, and that he won his first Bundesliga trophy in 1989, the sheer longevity of the man's career has to be admired.

He is perhaps best known for winning the Champions League with Real Madrid in 1998—the first after a 32-year drought in the club's history.

Now rewarded with a third stint at Bavarian giants Bayern Munich, 67 year-old Heynckes continues to prove that age is no barrier to success.

"Jupp is an extraordinary coach. He has matured with age and has become more relaxed. He is just perfect"—Franz Beckenbauer.

Success: 8, Consistency: 7, Longevity: 10, Current Reputation: 8.

Total: 33/40

18. Joachim Low

If this were a list of the most fashionable managers in world football, Joachim Low would be number one.

But as it is, he'll have to be judged on his ability in the profession, something he is by no means lacking in.

Having never really made his mark at club level, Low ascended to the German national team throne in 2006, continuing the team's excellent consistency at major tournaments.

At Euro 2008, his side finished runners-up behind Spain, at the 2010 World Cup, third, and at the most recent European Championships, he led Germany to the semifinal stage of the competition.

Success: 8, Consistency: 9, Longevity: 7, Current Reputation: 9.

Total: 33/40

17. Carlo Ancelotti

Leaving Milan after eight eventful seasons, Carlo Ancelotti arrived at Chelsea Football Club in the summer of 2009 with a weight of pressure on his shoulders, and the expectations that he should deliver at the first time of asking.

Upon reflection, the Blues' double-winning side of the 09/10 season played with a joie de vivre rarely seen in the country before.

They played with such a devastating freedom in attack that goals were rarely hard to come by—they scored seven in a game on three different occasions, even bagging eight against Wigan to clinch the Premier League on the final day of the season.

At Milan, Ancelotti won Serie A once and the UEFA Champions League twice, often mixing the youth of players such as Kaka with the experience of those like Paulo Maldini to great success.

"I tried to change [the tactics] of Chelsea compared to its past. More ball on the floor, exploiting the ability of some elements, in the respect of tradition physical strength and great character. Chelsea play good football"—Ancelotti.

Success: 8, Consistency: 8, Longevity: 8, Current Reputation: 9.

Total: 33/40

16. Jurgen Klopp

German wunderkind Jurgen Klopp has worked wonders at Borussia Dortmund, taking a team fast developing a reputation as perennial underachievers, and turning them into one of the most efficient teams the Bundesliga has ever seen.

Setting records for fun, such as the 87 total league-points tally amassed last season, Klopp also guided the team to a 28 league-match unbeaten streak, clinching glory with weeks to spare.

A man who begun his managerial career at only 31 years of age, the young coach's best days surely still lie ahead.

Success: 8, Consistency: 9, Longevity: 7, Current Reputation: 10.

Total: 34/40

15. Marcelo Bielsa

Marcelo Bielsa is currently very hot property indeed in Spanish football, his recent work with the Chilean national team, and now with Athletic Bilbao, making him one of the most highly respected coaches in the country.

His teams are becoming known for their thrilling style, whilst he himself is widely recognised as a true innovator of the game—his detailed methodology and minute attention to detail somewhat representing a footballing version of "Moneyball."

Although yet to win any major European silverware, he has earned the admiration of his peers in record time.

"Bielsa is currently the best coach on the planet"—Pep Guardiola.

Success: 8, Consistency: 8, Longevity: 8, Current Reputation: 10.

Total: 34/40

14. Kenny Dalglish

Although far more likely to spend the next few years playing golf and cruising around the world than making a sensational return to management, Kenny Dalglish makes a well deserved appearance here on the cusp of the top ten.

And although he failed to raise the metaphorical Titanic in his last spell on Merseyside, his reputation as a manger is firmly set in stone due to his three First Division triumphs with Liverpool in the late 80's, and his remarkable Premier League-winning season at Blackburn Rovers in 1994/95.

"He was so enthusiastic about working with those kids and what he could pass on to them and how he could improve them. Nobody could have worked harder when he was manager because he loved Liverpool so much"—Alan Hansen.

Success: 10, Consistency: 8, Longevity: 10, Current Reputation: 7.

Total: 35/40

13. Marcello Lippi

"He is such a damn good-looking bastard," Sir Alex Ferguson once said of Marcello Lippi. And whilst that may be the case, he's also a damn good manager.

Winner of the 2006 World Cup with Italy, he was also a key figure in the golden age of Italian domestic football in the 90's, winning Serie A a total of five times, and the Champions League once. Lippi is an elder statesman, not just within his own country, but in all of world football affairs.

A fantastic man-manager and motivator, Lippi likes his teams to become a family off the pitch, before they can succeed on it.

"There should be no prima donnas on a team, everyone should feel important, from the oldest player to the youngest"—Lippi.

Success: 10, Consistency: 9, Longevity: 9, Current Reputation: 7.

Total: 35/40

12. Guus Hiddink

South Korea, to the Netherlands, to Australia, to Russia—Guus Hiddink has never followed a conventional path as manager.

Coach of the famous South Korean team that upset the odds at the 2002 World Cup, Hiddink had forged his reputation years earlier during his stint at PSV in the late 80's, during which he won three straight Eredivisie titles.

Somewhat of an international football specialist, he has also led his home nation the Netherlands to the quarterfinals of the 1996 Euros and the semifinals of the 1998 World Cup.

His Australia side made it out of a tricky group at the 2006 World Cup, whilst he also managed to get Russia to the semifinals of the 2008 Euros.

Success: 9, Consistency: 9, Longevity: 9, Current Reputation: 8.

Total: 35/40

11. Roberto Mancini

Forgetting for one moment his recent successes with Manchester City, Roberto Mancini's greatest achievements arguably came whilst at Inter, where he won three straight Serie A trophies, before being shoved aside to make way for the arrival of Jose Mourinho.

A tactician who preaches the importance of a stingy defence, Mancini is perhaps a more traditional Italian coach in that respect.

He has been astute in making the most of City's vast resources to put together a team without any tangible weaknesses.

And though his off-the-field comments to the media often leave many scratching their heads, Mancini is a vastly intelligent man who always seems to know more than he lets on.

"When a manager wants you, he trusts you, so he gives you more chances. Mancini is like a dad to me. Mancini wants me so I have to be one of the best in the squad, so I don't disappoint him"—Mario Balotelli.

Success: 9, Consistency: 8, Longevity: 8, Current Reputation: 10.

Total: 35/40

10. Giovanni Trapattoni

The oldest manager on this list, 73-year-old Giovanni Trappattoni begun his managerial career with Milan back in 1974.

He has won the Italian League an unbelievable seven times—on six occasions with Juventus, and once with Inter Milan.

He is one of only two men to have won all three major European club titles (European Cup, UEFA Cup and UEFA Cup Winner's Cup) and one of only five in world football history to have won a league title in four different countries.

He faced perhaps his greatest challenge recently in trying to bring success back to the Ireland national team.

"Trapattoni is an absolute gentlemen. He had a major impact on myself and other players at Bayern Munich. I would not have had the career I had if I had not worked with him for three years at a young age"—Dietmar Hamann.

Success: 9, Consistency: 9, Longevity: 10, Current Reputation: 8.

Total: 36/40

9. Fabio Capello

"Don Fabio" has won a league title with every domestic club he has coached, and considering the fact that his career has taken him to Madrid, Milan, Roma and Turin, that is no mean feat.

His Milan side dominated, not just Italian football, but the entire continent in the early 90's, with a team that included the likes of Marco van Basten, Ruud Gullit, Franco Baresi and Paulo Maldini.

He transformed the fortunes of Real Madrid in the 2006/07 season, winning the league title despite high-profile falling outs with stars David Beckham and Ronaldo.

Capello may have been unsuccessful in the biggest moment with the England national team, but having won over two-thirds of his games with the side, remains one of their most winning managers.

Success: 9, Consistency: 9, Longevity: 10, Current Reputation: 8.

Total: 36/40

8. Mircea Lucescu

Romanian manager Mircea Lucescu is currently having remarkable success at Ukranian club Shakhtar Donetsk.

Since arriving in 2004, he has led the Hirnyky to six out of a possible eight league titles, also improving the side's standing in European competition, winning the UEFA Cup in 2009.

He has won top honours in Turkey with both Galatasaray and Besiktas, as well as in his home nation with Dinamo Bucuresti.

"I know Lucescu, he's an old football wolf, noble and wise"—Luciano Spalletti.

Success: 8, Consistency: 9, Longevity: 10, Current Reputation: 9.

Total: 36/40

7. Vicente Del Bosque

Vicente del Bosque has helped bring unprecedented glory to Spain, winning the last two major international tournaments.

But World Cup and European Championship successes aside, del Bosque also had a prolific spell in charge of Real Madrid between 1999 and 2003, winning two La Ligas and two Champions League titles.

It would take a man of some standing to have turned the team of Galaticos into a highly functioning unit, but in 2003, Real Madrid stood atop the precipice of world football as a team, rather than a group of individuals.

Known as a shy, reflective character who often shuns media attention, del Bosque commands respect from all who are lucky enough to play for him.

"He is very important because he always makes us calm. He transmits this tranquility, this way of just not making you nervous. He has something which makes you calm and he lets you play, it makes you feel like the way you want"—Cesc Fabregas.

Success: 10, Consistency: 8, Longevity: 8, Current Reputation: 10.

Total: 36/40

6. Louis Van Gaal

The king of Ajax, Louis van Gaal masterminded one of the great European triumphs of all time, winning the 1994/95 UEFA Champions League in the most unlikely of circumstances.

A team consisting of one of the most outrageously talented crop of young players, including Patrick Kluivert, Marc Overmars, Frank and Ronald de Boer, Edgar Davids, Clarence Seedorf and Edwin van der Sar, defied the odds to beat a heavily -favoured Milan side 1-0 in the final.

Since leaving Ajax, van Gaal has had productive spells at Barcelona, AZ and Bayern Munich, winning league titles at all three clubs.

Raised in the tradition of "total football," van Gaal is a staunch advocate for attacking football, but not always popular for his strict coaching methods.

"Van Gaal is the Hitler of the [team], [he] is arrogant, proud and has a problem. He has no idea of football. His type is sick, he's crazy"—Giovanni.

Success: 10, Consistency: 9, Longevity: 9, Current Reputation: 9.

Total: 37/40

5. Pep Guardiola

In only four years at Barcelona, Pep Guardiola achieved more than most managers dream of in a lifetime.

Fast-tracked to the top by the club for which he starred as a midfielder, local boy Guardiola had left Barca as a player before its sad decline into mediocrity not long after the new millennium, able to return years later with his legend intact.

Success was immediate under the 37 year-old, who delivered La Liga and Champions League trophies in his first season at the Catalan club.

Two more league triumphs and another Champions League-winning season since have cemented his place in history—individual honours merely clutter his trophy cabinet.

His calm demeanor on the sidelines be damned, Guardiola's dedication to perfection—his pursuit of perfect-passing, possession football—betrays a fierce inner desire to be the best.

"I will forgive if the players cannot get it right, but not if they do not try hard"—Guardiola.

Success: 10, Consistency: 10, Longevity: 7, Current Reputation: 10.

Total: 37/40

4. Arsene Wenger

Arsenal legend and Premier League wise man, Arsene Wenger's trophy cabinet may not be overflowing with silverware like some on this list, but his record and achievements at Arsenal have already earned him a place in the pantheon of great football managers.

Winner of three Premier League trophies as well as four FA Cups, he has kept a previously inconsistent club always near the top of the league, and always playing attractive football.

"The Invincibles" season of 2003/04 is unlikely to be repeated—the concept of a club going unbeaten through a league campaign in England is as unthinkable now as it was before Arsenal did it.

"His influence on English football has been immense and if he left tomorrow morning he would be considered Arsenal's greatest ever manager, and there have been some excellent ones"—Martin O'Neill.

"It's not impossible. I know it will be difficult for us to go through the season unbeaten. But if we keep the right attitude it's possible we can do it"—Wenger.

Success: 9, Consistency: 9, Longevity: 9, Current Reputation: 10.

Total: 37/40

3. Ottmar Hitzfeld

Having won 18 major titles in less than thirty years as a manager, Ottmar Hitzfeld's career success is almost as remarkable as his consistency.

He was won seven Bundesliga titles whilst at Borussia Dortmund (2) and Bayern Munich (5), also claiming Champions League glory at both clubs.

The ultimate disciplinarian, Hitzfeld is also an inspirational leader of men (when they're not stepping out of line).

Another former teacher, the German coach is a canny tactician with a calculated mind. He is widely recognised as the greatest manager the Bundesliga has ever seen.

"Hitzfeld is the ultimate Bayern coach. He understands everything about football. He has the most modern methods and is very clever psychologically. He can handle the stars. He has everything a Bayern coach needs"—Oliver Kahn.

Success: 10, Consistency: 10, Longevity: 9, Current Reputation: 9.

Total: 38/40

2. Jose Mourinho

You can love or hate the man, but Jose Mourinho is damn good at what he does.

Having been schooled under the legendary Bobby Robson, Mourinho's ascent up the ranks of world football was as swift as it was unexpected.

A school teacher-turned-translator-turned coach, he announced his arrival on the scene in now-typical Mourinho style—running, arms aloft in triumph, down the Old Trafford tunnel having masterminded a Champions League upset against Manchester United in 2004.

After winning all there was to win at Porto, Mourinho moved quickly to London side Chelsea, where he won back-to-back Premier League titles. At Inter he was even more successful, winning two Serie A titles and another Champions League trophy for good measure.

Now leading the Real Madrid renaissance, he remains as enigmatic as ever, providing more tabloid fodder than most in the game.

But his achievements to date are nonetheless remarkable—since his early days, his teams have rarely been found wanting over the course of a season.

"Please don’t call me arrogant, but I’m European champion and I think I’m a special one"—Mourinho.

Success: 10, Consistency: 10, Longevity: 9, Current Reputation: 10.

Total: 39/40

1. Sir Alex Ferguson

Players have come and gone at Old Trafford, legends made and trophies won, but one man remains an ever-present—a transcendent figure whose presence will be felt in the corridors and in the stands long after he retires from the game.

Despite having been successful in his native Scotland, Alex Ferguson arrived in Manchester to little fanfare in 1986, his admiration for the likes of Matt Busby, George Best and Bobby Charlton—his appreciation of the club's history—a key factor in his appointment.

Speaking about his early days, Ferguson once said "It's amazing how that anxiety can transmit itself to become guilt. You feel you are with this great club and wish you could give them something that tells them what you are about."

Recalling his first day in charge of the club in his 1999 autobiography, Managing My Life, he revealed how loyalty was the topic of his first discussion with the team.

"There was no trumpeting of my ambitions. The main point I made once they were assembled in the gym was that I hoped they regretted the departure of Ron Atkinson, since that would show they had a proper commitment to the man who was managing them."

Over 25 years later, nobody can doubt the loyalty and respect Sir Alex has earned from the countless footballers to have played under him.

Though it feels criminal to sum up his achievements at United in only a sentence, I'll do my best:

12 Premier League titles, five FA Cups, four League Cups, two Champions League titles and countless Manager of the Month, and Season awards.

He is the greatest, not just today, but for all time.

"You can talk about all the things he's won and all the years he's been in charge, but you wouldn't know it if you watched him on the bench. Every game looks like it's his first. He's so excited, so enthusiastic"—Javier Hernandez.

Success: 10, Consistency: 10, Longevity: 10, Current Reputation: 10.

Total: 40/40