These days, players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi continue to defy age, still competing at the highest level into their late 30s.
But while some chase one last trophy, others are already leading from the sidelines. Here’s a look at seven former players—all younger than Messi and Ronaldo—who’ve stepped into the manager’s seat and are now shaping football in a whole new way.
Jack Wilshere – From Arsenal’s Academy to the Big Stage at Norwich
Injuries cut Jack Wilshere‘s playing career short, forcing him to retire at just 30. But coaching? That’s where he’s making waves. After working with the youth teams at Arsenal, Wilshere joined Norwich City as part of Johannes Hoff Thorup’s staff in October 2024. Fast forward to today, and he’s now Norwich’s interim manager for the final two games of the Championship season. At just 33, he’s the youngest boss in the league—and potentially auditioning for the full-time role.
Aaron Ramsey – Leading Cardiff in Crisis
At 34, Aaron Ramsey is back at his boyhood club, Cardiff City, not just as a player, but as their third manager of the season. Sidelined by injury, Ramsey took over after Omer Riza was dismissed, with Cardiff sitting second from bottom in the table. With just two matches remaining, including a key trip to Norwich, Ramsey’s leadership—and his connection to the club—could be the difference between survival and relegation.
James Morrison – West Brom Legend Turned Boss
When West Bromwich Albion parted ways with Tony Mowbray, they turned to club legend James Morrison. The 38-year-old played over 300 games for the club and has been part of the coaching setup since 2019. Now, with two crucial games left and the playoffs out of reach, Morrison has a chance to prove he belongs in the dugout permanently.
Javier Mascherano – Coaching Messi in Miami
From midfield general to MLS manager, Javier Mascherano is now leading Inter Miami after Tata Martino stepped down. At 40, he’s coaching none other than Lionel Messi, along with Busquets and Alba, in his first senior club role. Mascherano previously led Argentina’s U20 side and now finds himself steering one of the most high-profile clubs in North America.
Tom Cleverley – Stability at Watford?
After yet another managerial change in March 2024, Watford handed the reins to Tom Cleverley. What started as a short-term fix has turned into something much more permanent. Cleverley, now 35, is the longest-serving Watford boss since Javi Gracia—an impressive feat for a club that’s had 20 managerial changes under the Pozzo family. He’s now signed through 2027, with real hope he can build something lasting.
Burak Yılmaz – A Coaching Whirlwind in Turkey
After stints as a player in Europe, Burak Yılmaz transitioned quickly into coaching. Following a brief spell at Fortuna Sittard, he returned to Turkey and managed Beşiktaş, Kayserispor, and now leads Kasımpaşa. At 39, he’s already experienced the highs and lows of Turkish football management—and he’s just getting started.
Cesc Fàbregas – Como’s Miracle Worker
Como 1907 was a club in ruins before new ownership and Cesc Fàbregas arrived. Initially joining as an investor, Fàbregas played briefly before retiring and taking over the under-19s. By November 2023, he was managing the first team—badge or not. Under his guidance, Como earned a fairy-tale promotion to Serie A. Now officially head coach on a four-year deal, he’s guiding the team through Italy’s top flight with poise and passion.
Final Whistle
From youth coaching gigs to high-pressure interim roles, these seven former players aren’t waiting around for their playing days to be distant memories—they’re already shaping the future of football. Whether or not they last in the hot seat, one thing’s clear: the next generation of managers has already arrived.
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