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The 2026 FIFA World Cup launches across the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, but players aren’t the sole stars.
As they chase glory, managers—charged with delivering results—command staggering salaries, with some earning more than star footballers.
Ancelotti: The King of Coaches
Carlo Ancelotti, Brazil’s head coach, leads the list by earning a record £8.28 million each year.
The Italian legend, who has won five Champions League titles, hopes to become the first foreign manager to win the World Cup. Brazil’s choice shows their aim to blend tradition with international experience.
England Bets Big on Tuchel
Next is Thomas Tuchel for England, who earns £5.06 million a year. After several close calls with Gareth Southgate, the FA chose Tuchel for his strong record in big matches.
He won the Champions League with Chelsea and has managed PSG and Bayern Munich, making him an expensive but sensible pick.
USA Makes a Power Play
The USA, as co-hosts, grabbed attention by hiring Mauricio Pochettino for £4.53 million a year, the biggest salary ever in American football.
The Argentinian coach, famous for his work at Tottenham Hotspur and PSG, is expected to make the team more competitive at home.
Newcomers and Shock Selections
Julian Nagelsmann of Germany, still in his thirties, earns £4.2 million, showing his status as one of Europe’s top tactical minds.
In a surprise move, Fabio Cannavaro is coaching Uzbekistan for £3.5 million. The 2006 Ballon d’Or winner was hired to bring international experience to Uzbekistan’s first World Cup run.
Veteran Legends Return
Other well-known managers are Roberto Martinez (Portugal, £3.5m), Didier Deschamps (France, £3.31m), and Lionel Scaloni (Argentina, £2.61m).
Even though Scaloni led Argentina to victory in 2022, his salary is on the lower side. Marcelo Bielsa (Uruguay, £2.61m) and Ronald Koeman (Netherlands, £2.61m) complete the top ten.
Big Wages, Bigger Expectations
These numbers show how football’s global hierarchy works, with federations spending millions to gain respect and results.
But history proves that money alone does not bring success. For Ancelotti, Tuchel, and Pochettino, the pressure is huge. Their salaries are not just paychecks; they are promises of glory.
Will these highly paid managers deliver, or will underdogs surprise everyone?
