Euro 2024 promises thrilling football and the strategic brilliance of some of the game’s most outstanding coaches. These elite coaches bring a wealth of experience, tactical acumen, and leadership to their respective teams. Let’s profile some exceptional managers who will lead their squads in the tournament.
Dragan Stojkovic (Serbia)
The Serbian Maestro
Dragan Stojkovic, capped 84 times by Yugoslavia during his playing days, took over as Serbia manager in 2021. He led the team to qualify for the 2022 World Cup and now aims to make a significant impact at Euro 2024. Stojkovic, who previously managed in Japan and China, brings a blend of international experience and tactical ingenuity to the Serbian side.
Ivan Hasek (Czech Republic)
The Experienced Strategist
Ivan Hasek was appointed the Czech Republic manager at the beginning of 2023, inheriting a team that had already secured qualification for Euro 2024. Hasek, a former regular for Czechoslovakia, has managed national teams and clubs across various countries, including Lebanon, France, and Saudi Arabia. His diverse managerial background equips him with unique insights and strategies.
Michal Probierz (Poland)
The Playoff Specialist
Michal Probierz took over as Poland’s manager in September 2023, leading the team through a challenging playoff route to secure their spot at Euro 2024. Known for his previous role with the Polish U21 side, Probierz demonstrated his tactical prowess by orchestrating a 5-1 victory over Estonia and a dramatic penalty shootout win against Wales.
Murat Yakin (Switzerland)
The Defensive Expert
Murat Yakin, a former Swiss international, succeeded Vladimir Petkovic as Switzerland’s manager after Euro 2020. The ex-Basel center-back guided Switzerland to the last 16 of the 2022 World Cup and secured their qualification for Euro 2024. Yakin’s defensive strategies and experience as a player contribute significantly to Switzerland’s solid performances.
Matjaz Kek (Slovenia)
The Slovenian Veteran
Matjaz Kek, a two-time Slovenian title winner with Maribor, was reappointed as Slovenia’s national team boss in 2018. Under his leadership, Slovenia reached its first major tournament since the 2010 World Cup. Kek’s extensive experience and deep understanding of Slovenian football make him a pivotal figure in their Euro 2024 campaign.
Serhiy Rebrov (Ukraine)
The Resilient Leader
Serhiy Rebrov, familiar to English football fans from his time at Tottenham and West Ham, has been managing Ukraine since June 2022. Despite the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict, Rebrov successfully led Ukraine through the playoffs, securing their spot at Euro 2024. His leadership and resilience are key to Ukraine’s hopes in the tournament.
Edward Iordanescu (Romania)
The Tactical Innovator
Edward Iordanescu has been steering Romania since 2022, achieving impressive results with six wins and four draws in the Euro 2024 qualifiers. His tactical innovations and ability to maximize player potential have revitalized Romanian football, making them a formidable team in the tournament.
Francesco Calzona (Slovakia)
The Dual Manager
Francesco Calzona, also head coach of Napoli, took over as Slovakia’s manager in 2022. He led the team to Euro 2024 qualification as Group J runners-up. Balancing dual managerial roles, Calzona brings a unique perspective and tactical depth to the Slovakian squad.
Ralf Rangnick (Austria)
The Pressing Proponent
Ralf Rangnick, known for his pressing style, was appointed Austria manager in April 2022. He guided Austria to Euro 2024 qualification with six wins out of eight games. Rangnick’s club-level experience, including a stint as interim manager at Manchester United, makes him a valuable asset for Austria in their quest for success.
Willy Sagnol (Georgia)
The Georgian Hero
Willy Sagnol, a Champions League winner with Bayern Munich, achieved legendary status in Georgia by leading the nation to their first-ever major tournament. Appointed in 2021, Sagnol’s leadership and tactical expertise were crucial in Georgia’s historic Euro 2024 qualification.
Vincenzo Montella (Turkey)
The Italian Tactician
Vincenzo Montella took over as Turkey manager towards the end of the Euro 2024 qualifying campaign, securing the top spot in Group D. Known for his successful stint with Adana Demirspor, Montella brings a blend of Italian tactical knowledge and Turkish passion to the national team.
Sylvinho (Albania)
The Rising Star
Sylvinho, a former Arsenal and Barcelona left-back has transformed Albania since his appointment 18 months ago. Under his guidance, Albania topped its qualifying group, showcasing its growth and competitiveness on the European stage.
Ronald Koeman (Netherlands)
The Dutch Legend
Back for his second stint as Netherlands manager, Ronald Koeman led the Oranje to Euro 2024 qualification. Koeman, one of the most respected Dutch coaches, has a track record of success with significant clubs and aims to restore Dutch football to its former glory.
Steve Clarke (Scotland)
The Scottish Resurgence
Steve Clarke has been pivotal in Scotland’s footballing revival since his appointment in 2019. Clarke guided Scotland to their first major tournament in 23 years at Euro 2020 and secured their place in Euro 2024 as Group A runners-up, defeating Spain.
Marco Rossi (Hungary)
The Consistent Performer
Marco Rossi, Hungary’s manager since 2018, led the team through a challenging Euro 2020 and secured their spot for Euro 2024. Rossi’s ability to get the best out of his players makes Hungary a team to watch.
Kasper Hjulmand (Denmark)
The Inspirational Leader
Kasper Hjulmand galvanized Denmark during Euro 2020, leading them to the semi-finals. Despite a group-stage exit at the 2022 World Cup, Hjulmand secured Denmark’s place at Euro 2024 as group winners, maintaining his reputation as an inspirational leader.
Luis de la Fuente (Spain)
The Tactical Reformer
Luis de la Fuente, appointed after Luis Enrique’s resignation, has revitalized Spain with a more intelligent style of possession-based football. De la Fuente’s success with Spain’s youth teams translates well into his management of the senior squad, making Spain a formidable contender at Euro 2024.
Domenico Tedesco (Belgium)
The Rising Star
Domenico Tedesco, appointed Belgium manager after their disappointing 2022 World Cup, led the team to an impressive Euro 2024 qualification campaign. His tactical brilliance and ability to rejuvenate the squad make Belgium a strong contender.
Roberto Martinez (Portugal)
The Strategic Mastermind
Roberto Martinez led Belgium to third place at the 2018 World Cup and now guides Portugal. Under his leadership, Portugal had a dominant qualifying campaign, with Cristiano Ronaldo and co. showing their strength and scoring prowess.
Zlatko Dalic (Croatia)
The Croatian Architect
Zlatko Dalic, the man behind Croatia’s greatest tournament performance in the 2018 World Cup, continues to lead the team with distinction. His ability to maintain consistency and get the best out of Croatia’s golden generation makes him a respected figure in international football.
Gareth Southgate (England)
The Unifier
Gareth Southgate has transformed England’s national team, taking them to their first major final in 55 years at Euro 2020. Under Southgate, England comfortably qualified for Euro 2024, and the question remains whether he can finally bring football home.
Julian Nagelsmann (Germany)
The Young Prodigy
Julian Nagelsmann, considered one of the best young coaches in world football, took charge of Germany after Hansi Flick’s departure. As the manager of the host nation, Nagelsmann faces immense pressure but has the tactical acumen and innovative approach to succeed.
Luciano Spalletti (Italy)
The Tactical Maestro
Luciano Spalletti, appointed after Roberto Mancini’s resignation, led Italy to a dominant Euro 2024 qualification campaign. Known for his attacking tactics, Spalletti’s success with Napoli and his experience in Serie A make him an excellent choice to defend Italy’s Euro crown.
Didier Deschamps (France)
The Proven Winner
Didier Deschamps, who has led France to numerous finals, remains a key figure in their quest for success. With a World Cup win in 2018 and a near miss in 2022, Deschamps’ experience and tactical brilliance make France perennial favorites in any tournament.
Euro 2024 will showcase the talents of these elite coaches, each bringing their unique strategies and leadership styles to the tournament. From seasoned veterans to rising stars, these managers will play crucial roles in their teams’ quests for glory. As the competition unfolds, their tactical decisions and motivational skills will be under the spotlight, shaping the destiny of their squads and the excitement of football fans worldwide.
