Simone Inzaghi leads the world’s highest-paid football coaches

Tuesday 08 September 2026 - 14:45

By: Azzat Manal

Simone Inzaghi leads the world’s highest-paid football coaches

Simone Inzaghi has emerged as the highest-paid football coach in the world, according to salary data published by SalaryLeaks, with the Italian manager reportedly earning €26 million per year at Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal.

Inzaghi moved to the top of the rankings after joining Al Hilal in the summer of 2025, surpassing long-time leader Diego Simeone. The Argentine coach, who has been in charge of Atlético Madrid since 2011, is reportedly earning €23.5 million annually.

Simeone had dominated the list of the world's best-paid coaches for several years, reflecting both his longevity at Atlético Madrid and his success in Spanish and European football. His position changed following Inzaghi's high-value move to the Saudi Pro League.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta ranks third, with an estimated annual salary of €17.45 million. The Spanish coach has established himself as one of the leading managers in the Premier League and has continued to play a central role in Arsenal's development into a major title contender.

José Mourinho and Paris Saint-Germain coach Luis Enrique are also among the highest earners, with both reportedly receiving around €12 million per year. Mourinho's inclusion reflects his long-standing status as one of football's most decorated and commercially prominent managers, while Enrique's position follows his success with Paris Saint-Germain.

The ranking also highlights the growing financial influence of Saudi Arabian football. Ange Postecoglou, who manages Al Nassr, is listed among the world's highest-paid coaches with an estimated annual salary of €11.7 million.

Other prominent names feature further down the list. Nottingham Forest coach Oliver Glasner is reportedly earning €13.38 million annually, while Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso is listed on a similar salary.

Italian coach Luciano Spalletti, meanwhile, is reported to earn around €11.2 million at Juventus. Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca completes the top 10, with an estimated annual salary of €11.63 million.

The figures underline the increasingly competitive financial landscape surrounding elite football management. While salaries remain heavily influenced by club resources, reputation and recent success, the expansion of the Saudi Pro League has significantly altered the global market for top-level coaches.

The latest ranking also illustrates how managerial salaries have become an increasingly important part of the football economy, with leading clubs prepared to invest heavily in coaches capable of delivering trophies, developing squads and strengthening their international profile.