Football is not only about players earning massive salaries; the managers behind these teams also make huge money. With clubs spending heavily in the transfer market, people are curious about how much top managers earn. In 2026, the highest paid football managers in 2026 continue to earn salaries that match their experience, reputation, and the financial strength of their clubs. Here’s a detailed look at the top 5 managers earning the most in the world.
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List of 5 Highest Paid Football Managers in 2026
5. Stefano Pioli – Al Nassr
Stefano Pioli joined Saudi club Al Nassr in September 2024. Even with star players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Pioli did not win major trophies during his short stint. He managed 44 matches, achieving 28 wins, 7 draws, and 9 losses. Al Nassr finished third in the Saudi Pro League with 70 points. His contract ended in June 2025.
Pioli’s annual salary of £15.5 million shows that even without trophies, he is among the highest paid football managers in 2026. The Saudi Pro League continues to attract experienced European managers with high salaries.
| Current Club | Tenure | Annual Salary | Total Contract Worth |
| Al Nassr | 2024–2025 | £15.5 million | £46.5 million |
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4. Mikel Arteta – Arsenal
Mikel Arteta has turned Arsenal into a strong competitor in both the Premier League and UEFA Champions League. Under his leadership, Arsenal has consistently challenged top clubs like Manchester City and Liverpool. His annual salary of £15.6 million makes him one of the highest paid football managers in 2026, with a contract running until 2027.
Although Arteta has only won the FA Cup since joining Arsenal, his tactical skills, inspired by Pep Guardiola, helped Arsenal finish second in the 2024–25 Premier League season and perform strongly in Europe.
| Current Club | Tenure | Annual Salary | Total Contract Worth |
| Arsenal | 2019–Present | £15.6 million | £46.8 million |
3. Pep Guardiola – Manchester City
Pep Guardiola is considered one of the greatest football managers ever. He has won six Premier League titles, including four consecutive wins, and one UEFA Champions League with Manchester City. His £20.7 million annual salary makes him the third on the list of highest paid football managers in 2026.
Guardiola’s pay reflects the club’s trust in his vision and his global reputation. His tactical brilliance and consistent success justify his place among the world’s top earners. Guardiola’s current contract with Manchester City runs until 2027.
| Current Club | Tenure | Annual Salary | Total Contract Worth |
| Manchester City | 2024–Present | £20.7 million | £62.1 million |
2. Diego Simeone – Atletico Madrid
Diego Simeone has led Atletico Madrid to great success over the last decade. Famous for his strong defensive style, Simeone has won La Liga twice and guided Atletico to two UEFA Champions League finals. He also won the Europa League in 2017.
His annual salary of £26 million places him as the second on the list of highest paid football managers in 2026. Simeone’s pay reflects his achievements, long-term stability, and Atletico Madrid’s financial power. He remains a key figure in La Liga and European competitions.
| Current Club | Tenure | Annual Salary | Total Contract Worth |
| Atletico Madrid | 2024–Present | £25.9 million | £77.7 million |
1. Simone Inzaghi – Al Hilal
Simone Inzaghi is the highest-paid football manager in the world in 2026, earning £26 million per year at Saudi club Al Hilal. He moved from Inter Milan to Al Hilal, marking a major step in his career.
Inzaghi started with a 1–1 draw against Real Madrid in the FIFA Club World Cup and later defeated Manchester City. Although he has not yet won a trophy with Al Hilal, his salary highlights the growing financial power of the Saudi Pro League. His position at the top confirms him as the leader among the highest paid football managers in 2026.
| Current Club | Tenure | Annual Salary | Total Contract Worth |
| Al Hilal | 2025–Present | £26 million | £78 million |
FAQs
1. Who is the highest paid football manager in 2026?
Simone Inzaghi of Al Hilal is the highest paid football manager in 2026, earning £26 million per year.
2. Which league pays the most to football managers?
The Saudi Pro League currently offers the highest salaries, attracting top European managers like Simone Inzaghi and Stefano Pioli.
3. How much do top Premier League managers earn in 2026?
Top Premier League managers like Pep Guardiola and Mikel Arteta earn between £15 million and £20 million annually, depending on their contracts.
4. Why are football managers paid so much?
Football managers are paid high salaries due to their tactical expertise, reputation, experience, and the financial strength of their clubs. Success on the field also brings revenue and brand value, justifying large earnings.