FA Cup Masters: Which Managers Have Won The Most Trophies?

Discover the legendary managers who hold the record for the most FA Cup wins. Join us in paying tribute to their remarkable achievements.

The FA Cup has produced incredible moments of excitement, triumphs, and unforgettable wins. But while the players get glorified for their roles, the man in the dugout doesn’t always. From those who outmaneuvered their opponents to those who led their teams with innovation and vision, these men have left an impactful legacy. Join us as we delve into the stories of the managers with the most FA Cup trophies of all time.

The Managers With The Most FA Cup Trophies

1. Arsene Wenger – 7 Trophies (1998, 2002, 2003, 2005, 2014, 2015, 2017)

Arsene Wenger holds the record for the most FA Cup trophies won by a manager in history. The Frenchman clinched an impressive seven titles in the competition during his days in charge of Arsenal. These titles in north London came in 1998, 2002, 2003, 2005, 2014, 2015, and 2017. With his revolutionary strategies and focus on dazzling, offensive play, along with a knack for developing raw young talent, Wenger’s exceptional abilities played an integral role in the Gunners’ success.

2. George Ramsay – 6 Trophies (1887, 1895, 1897, 1905, 1913, 1920)

George Ramsay, a true trailblazer in the world of football management, made Aston Villa a powerhouse team during his tenure. Under his leadership, they won the FA Cup not just once, but an impressive six times – in 1887, 1895, 1897, 1905, 1913, and 1920. The Scotsman established Villa as a dominant force through his many talents. He was renowned for his exceptional strategic skills, a knack for building strong teams, and an unerring focus on the game.

3. Sir Alex Ferguson – 5 Trophies (1990, 1994, 1996, 1999, 2004)

The legendary former manager of Manchester United is hailed as one of the all-time greatest managers in the sport’s history. Throughout his tenure at Old Trafford, Sir Alex Ferguson spearheaded five FA Cup victories – in 1990, 1994, 1996, 1999, and 2004. Boasting a strategic mindset, a unique talent for team-building, and an unmatched ability to inspire players, the Scotsman was one of a kind. His exceptional leadership was key to United’s remarkable success in the FA Cup.

4. John Nicholson – 4 Trophies (1899, 1902, 1915, 1925)

John Nicholson was a man who never held an official title as a manager, but certainly proved himself as one. His hometown club Sheffield United was lucky enough to have him on board in various roles. Yet, it was in the dugout where the Englishman’s legacy shines brightest. Under his leadership, the Blades lifted the FA Cup four times, in 1899, 1902, 1915, and 1925.

Special Mention: The Managers With 3 FA Cup Trophies

Aside from the above four, there are three other managers worthy of special mention. These are James Fielding, Charles Foweraker, and Bill Nicholson. They each won the FA Cup three times during their respective careers.

Fielding led Blackburn Rovers to consecutive victories from 1884 to 1886, cementing the club’s reputation as a dominant force in the competition’s early years. Likewise, Foweraker masterminded Bolton Wanderers’ success, claiming the trophy in 1923, 1926, and 1929 through his shrewd tactics and ability to create cohesive teams. Nicholson, a legendary Tottenham Hotspur manager, secured a hat-trick of FA Cup victories in 1961, 1962, and 1967 in north London.

“Arsene Wenger FA Cup” by Kieran Clarke is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.