Ballon d’Or 2025 Best Manager Nominees Announced

The shortlist for the Ballon d’Or Best Manager of the Year award is out. It highlights coaches who have greatly impacted European football during the 2024–25 season.

WHO ARE THE NOMINEES?

The nominees for the 2025 Best Manager award are Luis Enrique (Paris Saint-Germain), Hansi Flick (Barcelona), Arne Slot (Liverpool), Enzo Maresca (Chelsea), and Antonio Conte (Napoli). Each coach earned their spot after historic successes with their clubs in domestic and European games.

HISTORIC SEASON FOR THE NOMINEES

Luis Enrique guided Paris Saint-Germain to their first Champions League win in 32 years, completing a historic treble with Ligue 1 and the French Cup. Reports confirm that PSG finished the 2024/25 Ligue 1 season as champions. Hansi Flick achieved a domestic treble in his first year at Barcelona, winning La Liga, Copa del Rey, and the Supercopa de España—a first for the club.

Arne Slot guided Liverpool to win the Premier League title in his first year after replacing Jurgen Klopp, breaking Manchester City’s recent rule. Enzo Maresca led Chelsea to a top-four Premier League finish and lifted the Conference League and the Club World Cup, bringing back hope at Stamford Bridge. Antonio Conte returned to Italy with Napoli and led them to a stunning Serie A victory by staying ahead of Inter Milan on the final day.

WHAT’S NEXT IN THE RACE FOR THE AWARD?

The winner will be announced at the Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris in September. These coaches will hope their teams can keep winning early in the 2025–26 season to win any last-minute votes. Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona, and Liverpool all appear to be favorites in domestic leagues, while Chelsea fights for Champions League qualification.

Napoli aims to defend their Serie A title, with stiff competition expected from Inter and Juventus. The next games for these teams could be crucial, as early results often affect managers’ reputations and their chances of winning this prestigious award.