Who have been the best managers in the Champions League this season?

The 2024/25 Champions League season has been a rollercoaster and one of the most exciting editions of the competition for years, with sports betting odds unsure of which direction the road to Munich will lead next.

With the introduction of the Swiss-style league format, unpredictability has become the hallmark of the competition. Gone are the days of straightforward group stages, replaced by a single league table where each team plays eight unique opponents.

This change has made every match crucial, leaving fans and pundits alike guessing about who will secure their place in the knockout rounds.

At the time of writing, with two league games remaining, the race for progression is heating up, and managers have played a pivotal role in shaping their teams’ fortunes.

The stakes are higher than ever, as a poor finish in the league phase could force teams into the playoff round, increasing the difficulty of qualification for struggling sides like Manchester City and defending champions Real Madrid.

Finishing strongly not only secures progression but also offers a more favourable draw in the knockout rounds, making the role of managers even more critical this season.

As the competition nears its business end, certain managers have stood out for their tactical brilliance, adaptability, and ability to inspire their teams to thrive under the new format. Ahead of the final group games, we take a closer look at the best-performing managers in the Champions League this season.

Arne Slot – Liverpool

Arne Slot has been a revelation for Liverpool in Europe this season. Tasked with the unenviable job of replacing Jurgen Klopp, Slot has exceeded expectations by guiding the Reds to the top of the Champions League standings.

The Dutchman has brought an aura to the Reds in big wins over Madrid, Bayern Leverkusen and AC Milan, reinvigorating a Liverpool side that many thought would struggle in the post-Klopp era. With standout wins over top opposition, Slot has given fans hopes of a seventh European crown this season.

Hansi Flick – Barcelona

Despite domestic struggles in La Liga, Hansi Flick has turned Barcelona into one of the most exciting teams to watch in Europe this season.

Taking over from Xavi, Flick has brought a fresh tactical approach that has revitalised the Catalan giants. His ability to get the best out of a forward line led by the ageless Robert Lewandowski has been pivotal to Barcelona’s European campaign.

Having previously lifted the Champions League trophy with Bayern Munich in 2020, Flick’s experience and attacking philosophy make Barcelona a serious contender for glory.

Unai Emery – Aston Villa

Unai Emery continues to prove why he is one of Europe’s most underrated tacticians. Renowned for his mastery in knockout tournaments, particularly the Europa League, Emery has shown his pedigree in the Champions League this season with Aston Villa.

His side has taken crucial points from heavyweights Bayern Munich and Juventus, demonstrating tactical organisation and a fearless approach. With Emery at the helm, Villa have emerged as dark horses in this season’s competition, defying expectations in what many saw as a daunting group.

Xabi Alonso – Bayer Leverkusen

Xabi Alonso’s stock as a manager continues to rise after an impressive campaign with Bayer Leverkusen. Despite a tactical misstep in a loss to Liverpool, Alonso has showcased his ability to build a dynamic and resilient team.

Leverkusen were unbeaten in the Bundesliga last season and have brought that momentum into Europe, where they have shown they can compete with the best. After falling short in last season’s Europa League final, Alonso’s side now look ready to contend for the Champions League title with their exciting, attacking football.

Honourable Mention: Ruben Amorim

Ruben Amorim deserves a nod for his excellent start to the Champions League campaign with Sporting Lisbon.

His tactical acumen was on full display during a stunning win over Manchester City early in the competition. Though Amorim has since moved to Manchester United in November, his impact at Sporting cannot be overstated, as he laid the foundation for their impressive run this season.

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