Real Madrid is one of the most successful football clubs in history, and much of its success has been shaped by legendary coaches who have guided the team to domestic and international glory. From European triumphs to La Liga dominance, these managers have cemented their place in football history. Here’s a look at the seven greatest coaches in Real Madrid’s history.
1. Miguel Muñoz (1960–1974)
Achievements:
9 La Liga titles
2 European Cups (Champions League)
2 Copa del Rey trophies
Miguel Muñoz is the longest-serving and most decorated coach in Real Madrid’s history. A former player for the club, Muñoz transitioned into management and built an era of dominance. He won nine La Liga titles and led the club to two European Cups, making Real Madrid a global powerhouse in the 1960s. His leadership and tactical acumen helped define the club’s winning identity.
2. Zinedine Zidane (2016–2018, 2019–2021)
Achievements:
3 UEFA Champions League titles (consecutively: 2016, 2017, 2018)
2 La Liga titles
2 FIFA Club World Cups
2 UEFA Super Cups
2 Spanish Super Cups
Zinedine Zidane’s impact as a coach is legendary. Taking charge in 2016, he led Real Madrid to an unprecedented three consecutive Champions League titles—a feat unmatched in modern football. His ability to manage big personalities, make tactical adjustments, and deliver under pressure earned him a place among the club’s greatest managers. Zidane returned in 2019 and won another La Liga title before stepping down in 2021.
3. Vicente del Bosque (1999–2003)
Achievements:
2 UEFA Champions League titles
2 La Liga titles
1 Intercontinental Cup
1 UEFA Super Cup
Vicente del Bosque was instrumental in managing the famous Galácticos era, overseeing stars like Zidane, Ronaldo, Figo, and Raúl. His calm demeanor and tactical flexibility helped Real Madrid win two Champions League trophies in four years (2000 and 2002). Despite his success, he was controversially sacked in 2003, but his legacy as a coach remains unmatched.
4. Carlo Ancelotti (2013–2015, 2021–Present)
Achievements (as of 2024):
2 UEFA Champions League titles (2014, 2022)
2 La Liga titles
2 FIFA Club World Cups
2 Copa del Rey titles
2 UEFA Super Cups
2 Spanish Super Cups
Carlo Ancelotti is the only manager in history to win four Champions League titles, two of them with Real Madrid. His first spell at the club ended in 2015, but he returned in 2021 and led the team to another Champions League and La Liga double in 2022. Ancelotti’s experience, man-management, and tactical flexibility have made him one of the most respected figures in football.
5. Luis Molowny (1974, 1977–1979, 1982)
Achievements:
3 La Liga titles
2 Copa del Rey titles
2 UEFA Cups (Europa League equivalent)
Luis Molowny may not be the most well-known Real Madrid coach, but he was a crucial figure in the club’s history. He took charge multiple times on short-term spells and consistently delivered trophies. Molowny helped Real Madrid maintain its dominance in Spain, winning three La Liga titles and two Copa del Rey trophies.
6. José Villalonga (1954–1957)
Achievements:
2 European Cups (1956, 1957)
2 La Liga titles**
1 Latin Cup
José Villalonga was the first coach to win the European Cup (Champions League), leading Real Madrid to back-to-back victories in 1956 and 1957. He played a vital role in shaping the club’s European dominance, laying the foundation for Real Madrid’s global reputation. Despite a short tenure, his impact was enormous.
7. José Mourinho (2010–2013)
Achievements:
1 La Liga title (2012, with a record 100 points and 121 goals)
1 Copa del Rey title
1 Spanish Super Cup
Although José Mourinho only won one La Liga title, his influence on Real Madrid was profound. He broke Barcelona’s dominance by winning the 2011–12 La Liga with a record 100 points and 121 goals. His tactical discipline and strong mentality helped build the foundation for Real Madrid’s future Champions League dominance.
Honorable Mentions
Fabio Capello (1996–97, 2006–07): Won La Liga in both of his short spells.
Rafael Benítez (2015–2016): Laid the groundwork for Zidane’s success.
Jupp Heynckes (1997–1998): Won the 1998 UEFA Champions League.
Final Thoughts
Real Madrid’s history is filled with legendary managers who have contributed to the club’s immense success. Miguel Muñoz and Zidane stand out as the most influential, while Ancelotti, Del Bosque, and Mourinho also left lasting marks. As the club continues to evolve, future managers will aim to join this list of coaching greats.
Real Madrid have had many great coaches that have brought glories to the club so who do you think is the greatest coach in real Madrid history?
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