Some football managers in England are among the highest paid in the world as elite clubs and wealthy owners invest heavily in coaches capable of delivering domestic and continental success. Al-Hilal manager Simone Inzaghi tops the latest ranking of the world’s highest-paid football managers, with a reported annual salary of €26 million, followed by Atletico Madrid’s Diego Simeone on €23.5 million.
The list, published by Salary Leaks, features coaches from the Premier League, Spanish football and the Saudi Pro League, with Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and Manchester City boss Enzo Maresca among the highest earners. Here are the 10 highest-paid football managers in 2026, according to the reported salary figures. 1. Simone Inzaghi — Al-Hilal (€26 million) Italian coach Simone Inzaghi tops the ranking with an annual salary of €26 million at Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal.
Inzaghi joined the club in 2025 after leaving Inter Milan, where he established himself as one of Europe’s leading managers. During his time at Inter, he won domestic honours and guided the Italian side to two UEFA Champions League finals. His move to Saudi Arabia reflects the league’s growing financial power and ambition to attract prominent football figures. His contract with Al-Hilal is listed as running until 2027. Age: 50Annual salary: €26 millionContract expires: 2027 2.
Diego Simeone — Atletico Madrid (€23.5 million) Diego Simeone ranks second with a reported annual salary of €23.5 million at Atletico Madrid. The Argentine has managed the Spanish club since 2011, transforming it into a consistent challenger to Real Madrid and Barcelona. Under his leadership, Atletico won the La Liga title in the 2013/14 and 2020/21 seasons and reached two Champions League finals. Simeone’s long tenure and achievements have made him one of the most influential managers in Spanish football.
His reported contract runs until 2027. Age: 48,