Top 5 Real Madrid Managers of All Time

Let’s check out the most successful managers in Real Madrid’s history.

Real Madrid has been graced by numerous legendary managers throughout their storied history as “the Kings of Europe”. From tactical geniuses to inspirational leaders, these coaches have left an indelible mark on the club.

In this article, we’ll take a look at the best Real Madrid coaches of all time.

5- Jose Villalonga

Jose Villalonga holds a special place in Real Madrid’s history as the club’s first manager to win the European Cup in 1956. His tactical acumen and ability to inspire players paved the way for Real Madrid’s dominance in European competitions. Under Villalonga’s guidance, the team achieved unprecedented success, winning back-to-back European Cups in 1956 and 1957.

4- Carlo Ancelotti

Carlo Ancelotti’s legacy at Real Madrid is defined by his impressive statistics and remarkable success. As the only manager to have coached the club twice, Ancelotti boasts a staggering 74.8% win rate, making him the most successful coach in the club’s history. During his first stint, he achieved the long-awaited “La Decima,” securing Real Madrid’s 10th Champions League title in 2014, a feat fans had been yearning for since 2002.

Returning to the club for a second spell, Ancelotti led Real Madrid to the La Liga title during the 2021-22 season, becoming the first coach to win league titles in Europe’s top four leagues: Serie A, Premier League, Bundesliga, and La Liga. Additionally, he clinched another Champions League trophy in the same season, affirming his status as a managerial legend.

3- Vicente del Bosque

Few managers embody the spirit of Real Madrid like Vicente del Bosque. Having been associated with the club since the age of 17, del Bosque’s love for Real Madrid was evident in his coaching. In his four-year tenure, he secured major titles each season, including two Champions League triumphs. His ability to blend local talent like Raúl and Iker Casillas with star signings such as Zinedine Zidane contributed to the team’s success.

Despite his achievements, del Bosque’s departure in 2003 caused controversy among players and fans, highlighting the deep emotional connection he had with the club.

2- Zinedine Zidane

Zinedine Zidane’s transition from a legendary player to an exceptional manager was nothing short of remarkable. Winning three consecutive Champions League titles with Real Madrid, he etched his name in history as the only coach to achieve this feat. Zidane’s return to the club, following a short break, further solidified his status as a revered figure in the team’s history.

Though he found domestic success more elusive, his leadership and tactical prowess shone brightly on the European stage. Zidane’s ability to manage big personalities and get the best out of his players were key factors in Real Madrid’s European triumphs.

1- Miguel Muñoz

Miguel Muñoz’s enduring legacy at Real Madrid remains unparalleled. As a player and coach, he spent an astonishing 26 years at the club, leading them to numerous triumphs. Winning nine La Liga titles, two Copas del Rey, and two European Cups as a coach, he established himself as one of the greatest managers in football history.

Muñoz’s 3-3-4 formation revolutionized the game, capitalizing on the talents of players like Paco Gento, Alfredo Di Stéfano, and Ferenc Puskás. He became the first man to win the European Cup as both a player and a coach, showcasing his tactical acumen and footballing genius.