The age-old question – who is the greatest soccer manager of all time? – has once again sparked debate amongst football fans. FourFourTwo magazine has attempted to answer this subjective question, releasing its list of the top 50 managers in soccer history, sparking heated discussions in pubs and online forums alike. 



The ranking considers various factors, including trophy haul, impact on the sport, and tactical innovation, making it a complex and highly debated topic.



The list features several managers from the modern era, acknowledging their significant achievements and impact on the game. Sir Alex Ferguson and Pep Guardiola are notable examples. 



Ferguson, the legendary Manchester United manager, and Guardiola, the current Manchester City boss, represent two distinct styles of management and have achieved remarkable success with their respective clubs. Both have significantly shaped modern soccer and built iconic legacies. However, the list also incorporates legendary figures who have shaped the history of the game.



<h2>Guardiola’s high ranking but not at the top</h2>



Despite leading Manchester City to a fourth consecutive Premier League title and their first Champions League trophy, Pep Guardiola comes in at a respectable fifth position on FourFourTwo‘s list. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20250126_WST_550695_Pep-Guardiola-1-3-1200x675_997a9806.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-550706" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/26162321/Pep-Guardiola-1-3-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/26162321/Pep-Guardiola-1-3-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/26162321/Pep-Guardiola-1-3-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/26162321/Pep-Guardiola-1-3-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/26162321/Pep-Guardiola-1-3-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/26162321/Pep-Guardiola-1-3-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/26162321/Pep-Guardiola-1-3-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/26162321/Pep-Guardiola-1-3.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



His success at Barcelona (two European Cups), Bayern Munich, and Manchester City underscores his tactical brilliance and trophy-winning ability. His influence on the modern game is undeniable; however, his achievements, while impressive, aren’t enough to claim the top spot on this list.



Bill Shankly, legendary Liverpool manager, secures fourth place. He’s credited with transforming Liverpool from a mid-table team into a European powerhouse. His legacy extends beyond his three league titles and UEFA Cup win; he laid the foundation for Liverpool’s future success under Bob Paisley and Joe Fagan. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20250126_WST_550695_Jose-Mourinho-1200x675_84e9241b.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-550707" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/26162335/Jose-Mourinho-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/26162335/Jose-Mourinho-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/26162335/Jose-Mourinho-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/26162335/Jose-Mourinho-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/26162335/Jose-Mourinho-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/26162335/Jose-Mourinho-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/26162335/Jose-Mourinho-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/26162335/Jose-Mourinho.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



Johan Cruyff, the third-ranked manager, revolutionized Barcelona, prioritizing technique and a unique style of play that continues to define the club’s identity today. His four league titles and the club’s first European Cup are testaments to his groundbreaking approach. Rinus Michels, at number two, is celebrated for his pioneering “total soccer” philosophy, a tactical approach that profoundly influenced subsequent generations of managers, including Cruyff and Guardiola.



However, it is Sir Alex Ferguson who secures the top spot. After initial struggles at Manchester United, Ferguson orchestrated a period of unprecedented dominance, winning 13 Premier League titles, four FA Cups, and two Champions League titles. His transformation of Manchester United into a global footballing powerhouse, exceeding 26 years, solidifies his claim as the greatest football manager of all time according to this ranking.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20250126_WST_550695_Carlo-Ancelotti-4-1200x675_84c68efd.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-550708" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/26162344/Carlo-Ancelotti-4-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/26162344/Carlo-Ancelotti-4-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/26162344/Carlo-Ancelotti-4-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/26162344/Carlo-Ancelotti-4-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/26162344/Carlo-Ancelotti-4-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/26162344/Carlo-Ancelotti-4-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/26162344/Carlo-Ancelotti-4-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/26162344/Carlo-Ancelotti-4.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



The list includes a wide range of managers, from different eras and nationalities, reflecting the diverse and evolving nature of football management. Notable managers like Arrigo Sacchi, Matt Busby, Ernst Happel, Helenio Herrera, and Valeriy Lobanovskyi also feature, representing a rich history of innovation and success. 



The inclusion of these managers from different eras and different playing styles, emphasizes the complexity of the “greatest manager” debate, underscoring the difficulty of making a definitive judgment across such diverse contexts. Ultimately, this ranking serves as a valuable starting point for a debate, sparking further discussions and challenging preconceived notions, emphasizing the subjectivity inherent in assessing such remarkable achievements.



<h2>Greatest 50 managers (full list):</h2>



50 to 41: George Graham, Aime Jacquet, Luis Aragones, Bobby Robson, Bill Struth, Tele Santana, Diego Simeone, Albert Batteux, Rafael Benitez, Jill Ellis 



40 to 31: Luiz Felipe Scolari, Udo Lattek, Guus Hiddink, Zinedine Zidane, Bill Nicholson, Victor Maslov, Kenny Dalglish, Jupp Heynckes, Helmut Schon 



30 to 21: Jock Stein, Jurgen Klopp, Jose Villalonga, Mario Zagallo, Alf Ramsey, Herbert Chapman, Fabio Capello, Arsene Wenger, Bob Paisley, Bela Guttmann 



20 to 11: Louis van Gaal, Nereo Rocco, Ottmar Hitzfeld, Carlo Ancelotti, Miguel Munoz, Vicente del Bosque, Giovanni Trapattoni, Marcelo Lippi, Jose Mourinho, Brian Clough 



10 to 1: Valeriy Lobanovskyi, Ernst Happel, Helenio Herrera, Matt Busby, Arrigo Sacchi, Pep Guardiola, Bill Shankly, Johan Cruyff, Rinus Michels, Alex Ferguson

Discover who made the List: The 50 greatest managers in soccer history named

The 50 greatest soccer managers of all time revealed and ranked - World Soccer Talk

Ranking the 50 best soccer managers ever: Who are the greatest of all time?

The 50 greatest soccer managers of all time revealed and ranked

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Lionel Messi’s blockbuster move to MLS in 2023 stunned the soccer world, not only for its impact on the American sports landscape. It also solidified Inter Miami’s position as a rising force in global soccer. According to David Beckham, owner of Inter Miami, much of the credit for securing Messi’s signature and sealing his arrival to the MLS should go to <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/man-united-axes-sir-alex-from-ambassador-role-to-cut-costs/">Sir Alex Ferguson</a>, his legendary former <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/manchester-united-tv-schedule/">Manchester United</a> manager. In a recent episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jdYwenyTCzI" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rio Ferdinand Presents&nbsp;podcast</a>, Beckham revealed how Sir Alex’s wisdom played a pivotal role. Particularly in guiding him through the decision-making process behind one of the most significant transfers in US sports history.



<h2>What did Beckham say on his vision for Inter Miami?</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20241020_WST_536134_Alex-Ferguson-MLS-2-1200x675_839dfb3c.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-536162" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/10/Alex-Ferguson-MLS-2-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/10/Alex-Ferguson-MLS-2-300x169.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/10/Alex-Ferguson-MLS-2-768x432.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/10/Alex-Ferguson-MLS-2-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/10/Alex-Ferguson-MLS-2-740x416.jpg 740w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/10/Alex-Ferguson-MLS-2-490x275.jpg 490w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/10/Alex-Ferguson-MLS-2-250x140.jpg 250w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/10/Alex-Ferguson-MLS-2.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



From the moment <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/beckham-says-usa-will-win-the-world-cup-because-of-messi/">Beckham</a> established Inter Miami, he had always envisioned signing a marquee player. That player could transform the club and elevate the profile of soccer in the United States. His arrival in 2023 marked the realization of that dream. Reflecting on this pivotal moment, Beckham explained:



“I always said bringing someone like Leo to America was our gift. As an ownership group, we wanted to do something for the game in this country. Messi’s presence would not only benefit the sport but also inspire the next generation of American footballers.”



The Englishman acknowledged that beyond the Argentine’s incredible skill on the pitch, his off-field impact would be profound. “We knew Messi would be successful on the field, but his presence would also help boost our club off the field. Especially in terms of commercial growth and fan engagement. It was important to us to bring in a player who could make a significant difference both on and off the pitch.”



In fact, the Argentine’s impact was immediate. Since joining the team, the Argentine maestro scored 30 goals and provided 17 assists in just 35 appearances. Thus, leading Inter Miami to their first-ever trophy—the 2023 Leagues Cup. More than just a statistic, Messi has <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/fifa-needs-messi-to-sell-club-world-cup-to-tv-network-execs/">energized American soccer</a>. He helped increase attendance at <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/mls-tv-schedule/">Major League Soccer</a> games and boosted the league’s profile internationally.



<h2>Sir Alex Ferguson holds lasting influence on MLS</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20241020_WST_536134_Alex-Ferguson-MLS-1200x675_95c6f01f.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-536159" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/10/Alex-Ferguson-MLS-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/10/Alex-Ferguson-MLS-300x169.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/10/Alex-Ferguson-MLS-768x432.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/10/Alex-Ferguson-MLS-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/10/Alex-Ferguson-MLS-740x416.jpg 740w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/10/Alex-Ferguson-MLS-490x275.jpg 490w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/10/Alex-Ferguson-MLS-250x140.jpg 250w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/10/Alex-Ferguson-MLS.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



While Messi’s signing made headlines worldwide, Beckham attributed the success of the transfer to the lessons he learned from Sir Alex Ferguson during his playing days at Manchester United. According to Beckham, one of Ferguson’s key philosophies was that it wasn’t just about signing the biggest names. It was rather the “right players” who fit the club’s culture and long-term vision.



“I learned from the boss over the years that it’s not about bringing the biggest and best players, but the right players. With Leo, we knew we were bringing someone who would succeed on the field and who would also help our club off the field.”



This insight became instrumental when Messi’s potential transfer was in doubt. Messi had been widely expected to <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/messi-back-at-camp-nou-in-2024-miami-discuss-potential-date/">return to his former club Barcelona</a> after leaving PSG in 2023. Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal also <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/messi-salary-at-inter-miami-will-be-up-to-60-million-per-year-20230620-WST-438621.html">emerged as a strong contender</a>. However, Beckham’s determination and his belief in Ferguson’s philosophy ultimately secured Messi’s move to South Beach.



Lionel Messi’s arrival has been a game-changer for Inter Miami and the broader U.S. soccer landscape. The Argentine superstar has been nothing short of exceptional. The 36-year-old superstar led his team to new heights and boosted the league’s visibility on the global stage. His influence extends beyond the numbers, as Beckham emphasized, with Messi’s presence fostering a cultural shift and inspiring a new generation of soccer players and fans in America.



PHOTOS: IMAGO

Sir Alex Ferguson: Driving force behind Messi's MLS move

Lionel Messi's blockbuster move to MLS in 2023 stunned the soccer world, not only for its impact on the American sports landscape.

Sir Alex Ferguson: Driving force behind Messi's MLS move - World Soccer Talk

Sir Alex Ferguson is officially leaving his paid ambassador role with <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/manchester-united-tv-schedule/">Manchester United</a>. The legendary coach previously managed the club from 1986 until 2013. With the Scot at the helm, the Red Devils collected an incredible 13 Premier League titles. Ferguson also grabbed five FA Cup trophies and a pair of UEFA Champions League triumphs.



Following his retirement as a coach, Ferguson transitioned into an ambassador position at the club. While his exact duties in the role were a bit vague, team brass rewarded the legend with a significant salary. The Scot was receiving $2.8 million annually in the position.



<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5842096/2024/10/15/manchester-united-alex-ferguson-contract-ineos/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Athletic</a> is reporting that Ferguson was told that he would no longer receive the contract during a recent face-to-face meeting. The consultation was with United minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe. Sources with the news outlet claim that the former manager handled the move well. Ferguson is expected to remain a non-executive director at United and will likely still attend matches at Old Trafford.



<h2>Ratcliffe faces criticism at United again for axing Ferguson</h2>



According to The Athletic, the decision ultimately came down to reducing costs at the club. Ratcliffe has essentially attempted to clean house and limit spending since arriving in February. The British billionaire, however, has received heat throughout his short time at the club for making several unpopular moves. 



Ratcliffe previously canceled an annual awards party for United’s women’s team without informing the players. Instead, those involved with the women’s side had to learn about the decision via social media. The move came at a time in which some women’s players at the club felt “<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/man-united-womens-team-in-turmoil-as-ratcliffe-faces-criticism/">disregarded</a>” compared to others at rival teams.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20241015_WST_535216_SAF-Ineos-1200x675_f12a8b8c.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-535252" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/10/SAF-Ineos-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/10/SAF-Ineos-300x169.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/10/SAF-Ineos-768x432.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/10/SAF-Ineos-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/10/SAF-Ineos.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



The new minority owner also opted to fire around 250 total employees at the club. This particular figure represents around 20% of their entire workforce. The decision is expected to save United around $12 million. Some of these employees were non-soccer staff. 



Nevertheless, several of those departing were youth coaches. Much like previous incidents involving Ratcliffe, the coaches fired also reportedly felt <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/man-united-academy-coaches-left-shocked-and-angry-amid-cuts/">blindsided by the call</a>. The Athletic also claims that Ratcliffe’s decision to make major cuts within the organization saddened Ferguson.



<h2>United continues to spend heavily on player transfers</h2>



Despite the cost-cutting measures, United remains to be one of the biggest English spenders in the transfer market. They have shelled out around $718 million on a series of new players since the summer of 2022. This timeframe coincides with the hiring of head coach Erik ten Hag.



Nevertheless, many high-priced transactions in recent years have not exactly panned out. Undoubtedly, the worst deal by United brass during this time was Antony’s $103 million move from <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/ajax-tv-schedule/">Ajax</a>. The winger has five goals and three assists in 53 total <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/premier-league-tv-schedule/">Premier League</a> matches with the Red Devils. 



Antony, however, is not exactly the lone hiccup in the team’s transfer plans. Several other new players, including Casemiro, Mason Mount, and Andre Onana have all faced criticism as well.



Ten Hag’s future with United is also up in the air after yet another slow start to the season. Assuming that club brass ends up firing their manager, they will have to pay the Dutchman a hefty settlement. This comes just months after the team shockingly rewarded the coach with a contract extension.



PHOTOS: IMAGO.

Man United axes Sir Alex from ambassador role to cut costs

Manchester United minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has ended the ambassador role of Sir Alex Ferguson with the club.

Manchester United finds itself in a turbulent phase as the team continues to struggle under current manager Erik ten Hag. Amid growing discontent over recent performances, speculation about potential managerial replacements is rife. Among the names being floated is former Juventus boss <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/united-contact-ex-juve-boss-despite-ten-hags-new-contract/">Massimiliano Allegri</a>. He reportedly has the backing of the club’s legendary manager, Sir Alex Ferguson.



The pressure is mounting on Erik ten Hag after a series of disappointing results. Recent losses, including a 3-0 defeat to Tottenham in the Premier League and a 1-1 Europa League draw against Twente, have left United fans and management concerned. They are currently sitting 13th in the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/premier-league-tv-schedule/">Premier League</a> with just seven points from six games. Worse still, the team’s performances have raised questions about Ten Hag’s future at Old Trafford.



Reports suggest that the Dutchman has two crucial games to save his job. Those are an away <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/europa-league-tv-schedule/">Europa League</a> clash with Porto and a league fixture against Aston Villa. They may opt to part ways during the upcoming international break if the 54-year-old fails to secure positive results in these fixtures.



Per <a href="https://www.gazzetta.it/Calcio/Premier-League/01-10-2024/manchester-united-allegri-al-posto-di-ten-hag-la-situazione.shtml" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">La Gazzetta dello Sport</a>, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/5-crucial-alex-ferguson-decisions-are-still-haunting-manchester-united-20150708-CMS-144050.html">Sir Alex Ferguson</a> has personally recommended Massimiliano Allegri as the ideal candidate to take over. The Italian tactician is currently a free agent after his dismissal from Juventus in May. However, he has a storied managerial career. Allegri won six Serie A titles during his two stints at Juventus. He also guided the club to two <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/champions-league-tv-schedule/">Champions League</a> finals.



Ferguson’s endorsement of Allegri has added weight to the rumors of his potential arrival at Old Trafford. The 57-year-old’s experience and ability to adapt to different tactical challenges make him an appealing option. The Red Devils are seeking stability amid uncertainty.



<h2>Sir Alex Ferguson picks Allegri over other candidates</h2>



Allegri isn’t the only name linked to the Manchester United job. Former Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain manager Thomas Tuchel has also been mentioned as a potential replacement for Ten Hag. Additionally, reports suggest that current Inter Milan manager Simone Inzaghi could be a longer-term target for United. Inzaghi’s recent success in leading Inter to a Serie A title and a Champions League final has caught the attention of several top European clubs.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20241002_WST_532971_Allegri-Ferguson-1200x675_ff09e5d2.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-533000" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/10/Allegri-Ferguson-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/10/Allegri-Ferguson-300x169.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/10/Allegri-Ferguson-768x432.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/10/Allegri-Ferguson-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/10/Allegri-Ferguson.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



However, Allegri’s immediate availability makes him a strong contender. Sources claim that Manchester United would prefer to bring in an out-of-work manager should they decide to replace Ten Hag. This would allow for a smoother transition without the need for compensation fees to another club.



<h2>Concerns over Allegri’s pragmatic style</h2>



Allegri boasts an impressive managerial resume. Still, there are concerns about whether his pragmatic approach would go over well with Manchester United fans. His style of play at Juventus faced criticism as overly cautious, which could be a point of contention for the Old Trafford faithful. The United fanbase has previously shown resistance to defensive-minded coaches, as seen during the tenure of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/twenty-years-of-special-one-anniversary-of-mourinho-to-chelsea/">Jose Mourinho</a>, whose pragmatic approach failed to resonate with supporters.



Despite these concerns, Allegri’s track record of success cannot be ignored. He has a reputation for winning titles and implementing effective game plans, often outmaneuvering more attack-minded managers. If Ferguson’s recommendation is any indication, the Italian’s experience and tactical acumen could be exactly what Manchester United needs to return to winning ways.



Another important factor in the managerial decision-making process is the influence of INEOS, the company co-owned by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, which holds a significant stake in Manchester United. INEOS is taking part in discussions about the future of the club’s leadership. Its executives are considering Allegri as a potential replacement for Ten Hag.



While Allegri’s name is gaining traction, other candidates remain under consideration. Former England manager Gareth Southgate and Inter Milan’s Simone Inzaghi are also possibilities. There was even brief speculation about a potential return for Ole Gunnar Solskjær. Although that idea seems far-fetched.



PHOTOS: IMAGO

Sir Alex Ferguson picks Ten Hag's successor at United?

Manchester United find themselves in a turbulent phase as the team continues to struggle under current manager Erik ten Hag.

Despite retiring nearly a decade ago, Sir Alex Ferguson is about to add to his medal collection with an old European cup. UEFA has decided to award Aberdeen FC European Cup Winners’ Cup medals for their 1983 triumph over <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/real-madrid-tv-schedule/">Real Madrid</a>. Ferguson was at the helm at the Scottish club from 1978 to 1986 before departing for <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/manchester-united-tv-schedule/">Manchester United</a>.



“It’s a great honor to be receiving this medal and I am grateful to everyone who has worked so hard to make this happen,” <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/65165751" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">said</a> Ferguson after UEFA’s decision was revealed.



“Their efforts, along with the co-operation of UEFA, is much appreciated. It’s also fantastic to see some of the wonderful people who worked tirelessly behind the scenes during this hugely successful period for the club now being honored.”



<h2>Club legends like Ferguson able to receive European Cup medal</h2>



Europe’s governing body of the sport will only be handing out limited medals for the victory. Only Aberdeen’s starting XI and five substitutes were guaranteed to receive a medal. However, the club will also get to hand out six additional medals as well. Ferguson is set to receive one of the extras. 



Along with the iconic manager, assistant manager Archie Knox and midfielder Dougie Bell will also be given medals. Bell missed the final against Real because of an injury. Former team vice-chairman Chris Anderson and Teddy Scott are set to be awarded medals posthumously as well. Scott spent nearly 50 years at the club as a player, coach and kit man.



<h5>Aberdeen chairman grateful for UEFA’s decision</h5>



“We are extremely grateful to Chris Gavin of the AFC Heritage Trust and Duncan Fraser for their tireless work on this special project which will now ensure Sir Alex, Archie, Dougie and the Donald, Anderson and Scott families are rightly recognized for the important part they played in the club’s success in 1983,” <a href="https://www.afc.co.uk/2023/04/03/uefa-to-grant-special-european-cup-winners-cup-medals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">proclaimed</a> Aberdeen chairman Dave Cormack.



“The presentation of these medals during the Freedom of the City celebrations will give our supporters a further opportunity to play their part in recognizing the inspirational achievements of these players and staff.”



UEFA made the ruling near the 40th anniversary of the match. Aberdeen collected their first European trophy on the night as they beat Real 2-1 in extra time. The European Cup Winners’ Cup later fold in 1999. It was previously an annual competition consisting of clubs which won their domestic national cup tournaments.



PHOTO: IMAGO / PA Images

Legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson is adding to his trophy medal case despite retiring nearly a decade ago stemming from the European Cup.

Sir Alex Ferguson to receive European cup medal after 40 years

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Sir Alex Ferguson to receive European cup medal after 40 years