As the 2024 European Championship approaches, we take a look at the top managers tasked with guiding their nations to glory.
Among the standout tacticians set to take center stage in Germany are a mix of experienced, decorated, and rising stars of the coaching world. They include:
1. Didier Deschamps (France)
France may have endured a disappointing exit at the 2020 Euros, but they remain one of the favorites with Didier Deschamps at the helm.
The 54-year-old has been in charge of Les Bleus for 12 years, during which time he has led them to World Cup glory in 2018 and the 2022 final.
As a former France captain who won the World Cup and European Championship as a player, Deschamps will be aiming to become only the second person, after Germany’s Berti Vogts, to achieve the same feat as a manager.
2. Julian Nagelsmann (Germany)
The hosts, Germany, will be led by Julian Nagelsmann, a 36-year-old tactician considered one of the best in the world.
Nagelsmann’s appointment came after a harsh dismissal from Bayern Munich, where he had won the Bundesliga in both his full seasons.
Despite that setback, the young manager is widely respected for his tactical prowess, and is tasked with restoring Germany’s fortunes on home soil.
3. Roberto Martinez (Portugal)
After leaving his role with Belgium, Roberto Martinez took over as Portugal’s manager in January 2023.
The Spaniard enjoyed a strong start, guiding the 2016 Euro champions to 13 consecutive wins before their streak was ended.
However, the former Everton and Wigan boss will face a tough test, with Turkey, Georgia, and Czech Republic waiting in a challenging Group F.
4. Luis de la Fuente (Spain)
Following a disappointing World Cup exit, Spain parted ways with Luis Enrique and appointed Luis de la Fuente, who has previously coached the country’s youth teams.
De la Fuente has implemented a more incisive brand of possession-based football, and the three-time European champions will be aiming to reclaim their continental crown with him at the helm.
5. Gareth Southgate (England)
Gareth Southgate led the England national team to their first major final in 55 years at EURO 2020, where they ultimately fell short against Italy.
The pressure is on the 52-year-old to deliver a long-awaited trophy, and the Three Lions will be hoping to finally “bring it home” under his guidance.
6. Luciano Spalletti (Italy)
Italy won Euro 2020 under Roberto Mancini, but his shock resignation last year means that the Azzurri will be led in the defense of their crown by a different manager in the names of Luciano Spalletti.
The experienced Italian tactician, who has won multiple trophies in Serie A, will be looking to instill his attacking philosophy in an Italy side that faces a tough group containing Spain, Croatia, and Albania.
7. Ronald Koeman (Netherlands)
Back in the Netherlands hot seat for a second time, Ronald Koeman is one of his country’s most legendary players.
The Oranje remain a difficult side to predict, and Koeman will be hoping to restore their status as a dominant force in European football after a disappointing World Cup campaign.
8. Ralf Rangnick (Austria)
Appointed Austria manager in April 2022, Ralf Rangnick steered his team to Euro 2024 qualification as runners-up to Belgium in their qualifiers group.
The German tactician, known for his pressing philosophy, will be eager to restore his reputation after a challenging spell at Manchester United, with Austria facing a difficult group that includes Poland, France, and the Netherlands.
