The Premier League has seen a whole host of top-tier managers throughout its history. From the likes of Arne Slot and Carlo Ancelotti, who won the title on their first attempts, to David Moyes and Sam Allardyce, whose longevity in the English top flight has made them some of the most recognisable coaches the division has ever seen.
Because there have been so many top-class examples of those taking to the dugout, it is a tricky conundrum to select an absolute best. Often, it is more straightforward to name a group of people who could fit the criteria of being among the best. And that is exactly what former Arsenal and Crystal Palace frontman Ian Wright did when he named his five greatest Premier League managers in history.
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5
Jose Mourinho
Chelsea, Manchester United & Tottenham Hotspur
Jose Mourinho was already making a name for himself in Europe before arriving in England. But when he did come over to these shores, he made sure to make an impact. He first rose to prominence with FC Porto, leading the Portuguese side to a shock Champions League victory in 2004, a feat that showcased his tactical brilliance and ability to defy the odds.
Mourinho arrived at Chelsea later that year and wasted no time in making his mark, winning back-to-back Premier League titles in his first two seasons. His disciplined, results-driven style transformed the club into a dominant force in English football.
In 2013, he returned to Stamford Bridge and guided Chelsea to another league title in 2015, this time with a squad many viewed as weaker than his first. His time in England also included a spell at Manchester United, where he added the Europa League and League Cup to his growing collection of trophies.
Mourinho’s success across multiple clubs and countries cements his place among the managerial elite. And Wright believes that his three Premier League titles is enough to earn him a spot on this list.
4
Jurgen Klopp
Liverpool
Only one Premier League title, but that was all Jurgen Klopp needed to sit above Mourinho according to Wright.
“When I think of him, I don’t think of the trophies first, I think of him, and how he’s been and his passion for it, his drive, his will to win,” the former Arsenal striker explained when citing his reasons for having the German above the ‘Special One.’
“And then afterwards, you look at what he’s done and think yeah, he was the perfect Liverpool manager.”
Klopp left Anfield in 2024 having secured a legacy that few could rival. In terms of silverware, he completed the full set, winning every major trophy available during his time at Liverpool. Most notably, he ended the club’s three-decade wait for a Premier League title and led them to three Champions League finals, lifting the trophy once in 2019.
3
Arsene Wenger
Arsenal
While Wright no doubt has a soft spot for his former boss, it’s not enough to take him any higher than third. Arsene Wenger’s most defining moments at Arsenal primarily came after Wright had left the club. Most notably, the French manager masterminded the legendary 2003–04 ‘Invincibles’ campaign – guiding the Gunners through an entire Premier League season unbeaten, a feat unmatched in the modern era and widely regarded as one of English football’s greatest achievements.
Wenger also came within touching distance of Champions League glory in 2006, narrowly missing out in a dramatic final against Barcelona. Reflecting on that era, Wright argued that with a bit more luck, the team could have cemented its place among the all-time greats of European football.
For the most part though, the move to the Emirates meant that he never had the budget nor the team to compete. While this led to Arsenal fans claiming that the Frenchman was underperforming, in hindsight, Wright believes that only strengthens Wenger’s status as a legendary great due to the fact he was still able to qualify for Europe’s elite competition so frequently.
“The teams that he qualified for the Champions League with, at that time. He has to get some credit for that.”
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2
Pep Guardiola
Manchester City
With six Premier League titles to his name – including an unprecedented four in a row – Pep Guardiola’s reign at Manchester City has been nothing short of historic. His time at the club has redefined dominance in English football. From the record-breaking Centurion campaign in 2017–18 to the iconic Treble-winning season of 2022–23, Guardiola has elevated City to heights few thought possible.
His tactical innovation, squad evolution, and relentless pursuit of excellence have turned the Premier League into what at times appears to be his personal tactical showcase.
Arriving in 2016, the Spaniard didn’t just build a winning team – he built a footballing machine that has influenced how the game is played across the country. Such overwhelming success has made it difficult for many, including Wright, to overlook his claim as the greatest manager the league has seen, but the former England international conceded that one other man took top spot.
1
Sir Alex Ferguson
Manchester United
The greatest coach in all of sports. Sir Alex Ferguson’s legacy at Manchester United stands unmatched, and it’s no surprise he tops Ian Wright’s list of all-time great Premier League managers.
Across an extraordinary 27-year tenure at Old Trafford, Ferguson didn’t just build a winning team – he created a footballing dynasty. His United sides dominated English football, collecting a record 13 Premier League titles, two Champions League trophies, and a vast array of domestic honours. But what truly sets Ferguson apart is his remarkable ability to rebuild and adapt. From the Class of ’92 to the Ronaldo-Rooney era, he continually evolved his squads to meet the demands of changing times, all while staying at the top.
Ferguson’s leadership, man-management, and relentless drive for success made United a powerhouse not only in England but across Europe. His influence stretched beyond the pitch – he reshaped the culture of the club and set a standard that few, if any, have been able to replicate.
All statistics courtesy of StatMuse – accurate as of 28/06/2025.
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