Wayne Rooney, despite being out of a job since December 2024, tops the list of the world’s wealthiest football coaches with an estimated net worth of 170 million euros. While pinpointing coaches’ finances is tricky, a recent ranking reveals the surprising fortunes built on the sidelines.
Here’s a look at the top 10 highest-paid managers as of 2026:
1. Wayne Rooney – 170 million euros
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Rooney’s dismissal from Plymouth Argyle in December 2024 hasn’t dented his financial standing. The bulk of his wealth stems from his playing days at Manchester United, where he reportedly earned around 300,000 euros per week at his peak. Currently, he works as a TV pundit while exploring future coaching opportunities.
Where he worked: Derby County,DC United,Birmingham,Plymouth.
2. Diego simeone – 102 million euros
atlético Madrid’s Diego Simeone is the highest-paid coach globally, earning an remarkable 25.9 million euros annually. He’s been with the Madrid club since 2011, and his contract extends thru the summer of 2027.
Where he worked: Racing Club, Estudiantes LP, River Plate, San Lorenzo, Catania, Atlético.
3.Jose mourinho – 100 million euros
“The Chosen One” boasts an estimated net worth of 100 million euros, a figure surprisingly bolstered by 84 million euros in dismissal
payments throughout his career. He is currently at Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia. He’s been without a club since his dismissal in January of last year, though he’s frequently linked with potential openings.
Where he worked: Liverpool, Rangers, Aston Villa, Al Ittifaq.
4. Alex Ferguson – €53.6 million
Sir Alex Ferguson, the record holder with 49 trophies, is among the most decorated coaches on this list. His wealth grew not only from his time at Old Trafford but also through various business ventures.
Where he worked: St Mirren, Aberdeen, Scotland national team, Manchester United.
5. Carlo Anchelotti – 41 million euros
Carlo Ancelotti currently manages the Brazilian national team, earning 9.5 million euros a year – the highest salary among national team coaches. His coaching career began in 1995, and at 66 years old, he continues to thrive in the profession.
Where he worked: Reggiana, Juventus, Milan, Chelsea, PSG, Real Madrid, Bayern, Napoli, Everton, Brazil national team.
6. Jurgen klopp – 40 million euros
Following his departure from Liverpool, Jurgen Klopp assumed the role of head of global football growth at Red Bull – a position that undoubtedly comes with a significant salary. During his tenure at Liverpool, he earned around 18.5 million euros annually.
Where he worked: Mainz,Borussia Dortmund,Liverpool.
7. Arsene Wenger – 39 million euros
Arsene wenger remains in the top 10, though other prominent coaches may surpass him by 2027. during his 22 years at Arsenal, he became one of the highest-paid managers in the world. since 2019, he has served as FIFA’s Director of Global Football Development and occasionally provides expert commentary.
Where he worked: Nancy,Monaco,nagoya grampus,Arsenal.
