As global standards rise, Europe is no longer the only source of top football managers. A new generation of influential coaches are making a name for themselves from outside of Europe.
A manager's impact can be the deciding factor of a team's success. While European football is renowned for its pool of talented managers, the game beyond the continent is equally thrilling.
ADVERTISEMENTThere are undoubtedly exceptional managers in other parts of the world. However, it is extremely difficult for international coaches to move to a top-tier European football club due to a lack of access and unfamiliarity with the local players, league, and language.
That being said, coaches and managers are catching the eye from outside Europe. Let's take a look at who they are.
Singapore's Gavin Lee simultaneously manages Singapore Premier League club Tampines Rovers and as the assistant coach of the Singapore national team.
Rhulani Mokwena and Emerse Fae have had great success in African club and continental competitions, respectively, with Fae leading Cote d'Ivoire to an improbable African Cup of Nations victory in 2023 despite only joining the team with the tournament in progress.
With an established global pathway for talented players, it shouldn't be long until we see more managers from outside Europe take charge of a team in one of the top five European leagues.