The dugout is one of the most ruthless places in modern football. Coaches can go from celebrated tacticians to free agents within a few poor months, regardless of past glories. As the 2024-25 season wraps up, the managerial merry-go-round is in full swing with clubs reshaping their strategies for the upcoming campaign.
We’ve already seen some familiar faces land new roles — Massimiliano Allegri, for example, returning to AC Milan. Meanwhile, Tottenham Hotspur have already parted ways with Ange Postecoglou after their turbulent season. But there remains a pool of top-class, unemployed managers available for clubs in search of fresh ideas and leadership.
Here’s a look at ten of the finest managerial minds currently without a job — and all waiting for the right opportunity to write their next chapters.
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Top 10 Unemployed Managers in Football Right Now
10. Imanol Alguacil (Last Club: Real Sociedad)
For over a decade, Imanol Alguacil dedicated his professional life to Real Sociedad, steadily climbing the ranks before taking charge of the senior team in 2018. His crowning moment came with that Copa del Rey triumph in 2019-20, ending a 23-year silverware drought for the Basque club.
Beyond the trophy, Alguacil’s true achievement was transforming Real Sociedad into consistent European challengers, guiding them to Champions League and Europa League appearances. After stepping away, Alguacil is primed for a new challenge where his ability to build and nurture talent could prove invaluable.
9. Joachim Low (Last Job: Germany National Team)
Joachim Low remains one of international football’s iconic names, leading Germany to their unforgettable 2014 World Cup triumph. His reign also included a Confederations Cup win in 2017, a European Championship final appearance in 2008, and a third-place finish at the 2010 World Cup.
However, Low’s absence from club football since his early managerial days may work against him. His last domestic success came with Austrian side Tirol Innsbruck over two decades ago. Still, with his extensive experience and tactical acumen, many clubs could be tempted to hand him the reins.
8. Sergio Conceicao (Last Club: AC Milan)
Although his spell at AC Milan ended poorly, Sergio Conceicao’s tenure at Porto remains impressive. Three Primeira Liga titles, four Portuguese Cups, and several other domestic honors built his reputation as one of Portugal’s best tacticians.
The fiery Portuguese coach thrives on intensity and motivation, characteristics that helped shape Porto into regular European competitors. Conceicao’s next move will need to be carefully selected, but his record suggests he could revive any struggling side needing leadership and grit.
7. Ange Postecoglou (Last Club: Tottenham Hotspur)
Postecoglou divides opinions. After guiding Tottenham Hotspur to Europa League success in 2024-25, many expected him to build a dynasty. Yet, a dismal Premier League campaign saw Spurs plummet to 17th.
Despite the chaos in North London, Postecoglou’s career boasts multiple league titles in Australia, Japan, and Scotland. His attacking philosophy is admired, though sometimes to a fault, as shown in his stubborn tactics even in adverse situations. Nevertheless, his next club could benefit from both his trophy-laden résumé and lessons learned from failure.
6. Luciano Spalletti (Last Job: Italy National Team)
Luciano Spalletti famously masterminded Napoli’s first Serie A title since the Maradona era, lifting the Scudetto in 2022-23. Before that, Spalletti revolutionized tactics in Serie A with his deployment of Francesco Totti as a false nine at Roma.
With additional success at Zenit Saint Petersburg and Inter Milan, Spalletti has always combined innovation with pragmatic results. After stepping down from the Italy role, his next project is eagerly awaited by fans who admire his tactical versatility.
5. Edin Terzic (Last Club: Borussia Dortmund)
Twice Borussia Dortmund manager, Edin Terzic has left an indelible mark on the club despite falling agonizingly short of ultimate success. His DFB-Pokal triumph in 2021 was a bright spot, but losing the Bundesliga on the final day in 2022-23 and falling to Real Madrid in the 2024-25 Champions League final showcased his frustrating luck.
Terzic is patient, waiting for a project where he can work with young, hungry squads eager to develop — something he excelled at in Dortmund.
4. Roberto Mancini (Last Job: Saudi Arabia National Team)
After a brief and uninspiring spell with Saudi Arabia, Roberto Mancini is tipped to return to club football. The Italian tactician’s managerial résumé includes three consecutive Serie A titles with Inter Milan and Manchester City’s first Premier League crown in 2012.
Renowned for his cup exploits — including an FA Cup with City and a memorable Euro 2020 triumph with Italy — Mancini is a proven winner. Any club aiming for immediate silverware could do far worse than turning to his expertise.
3. Xavi (Last Club: Barcelona)
Stepping into Barcelona’s hot seat in 2021, Xavi inherited a broken side but gradually restored the club’s famed identity. By his second season, Barcelona were back atop Spanish football, cruising to a La Liga title.
Although his last campaign was marred by injuries and boardroom instability, Xavi’s credentials are solid. Young, tactically astute, and carrying the Barca DNA, he’s likely to be near the top of any shortlist should a big European job open up soon.
2. Jurgen Klopp (Last Club: Liverpool)
Jurgen Klopp transformed Liverpool into global giants again, securing a historic Premier League title, Champions League glory, and numerous domestic trophies. His heavy-metal football and emotional leadership style won admiration far beyond Anfield.
While Klopp is currently involved with Red Bull’s global football operations, the managerial itch may return sooner than expected. Few managers inspire loyalty and belief quite like Klopp, and top clubs would surely battle for his signature.
1. Zinedine Zidane (Last Club: Real Madrid)
Zinedine Zidane’s record at Real Madrid reads like fantasy — two La Liga titles, three consecutive Champions League trophies, and a cabinet full of domestic and international silverware. Despite his staggering success, Zidane has been on hiatus since 2021, awaiting the perfect opportunity.
All signs point to the France national team post after Euro 2026, but Zidane’s availability will continue to attract speculation. Should he return to club football before then, he’ll undoubtedly command instant respect in any dressing room.
Read More: Nicola Zalewski Set for Nerazzurri Adventure as Inter Milan Trigger Permanent Move from Roma
FAQs
Why are these managers jobless now?
Football is ruthless. Even successful coaches can be sacked due to poor runs or club politics.
Which clubs could hire them?
Top European teams with managerial vacancies or uncertainty may target them this summer.
Why is Zidane still waiting?
Zidane is likely holding out for the France job, expected to open after Euro 2026.
Will Klopp return soon?
Klopp hasn’t given a return date yet. He’s currently involved with Red Bull’s football projects.
Who’s best for rebuilding teams?
Edin Terzic and Imanol Alguacil stand out for their work with developing squads.
