The FIFA World Cup, football’s most prestigious tournament, not only crowns the best team but also etches the names of the strategists who guided them to glory into the annals of history. From the inaugural tournament in 1930 to the latest spectacle in 2022, a select group of managers has achieved the ultimate dream.

 

As we look back at these legends, the perennial question arises: who will be the next to join this elite club?

 

A Roll Call of Champions

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The list of WC winning managers is a testament to tactical brilliance, leadership, and the ability to forge a cohesive unit capable of performing under immense pressure. Here’s a look at the illustrious names who have lifted the coveted trophy:

* 1930: Alberto Suppici (Uruguay) – The first-ever World Cup winning manager, leading his home nation to victory.

* 1934 & 1938: Vittorio Pozzo (Italy) – The only manager to win two consecutive World Cups, a feat that highlights his enduring tactical prowess.

* 1950: Juan López Fontana (Uruguay) – Guided Uruguay to their second WC triumph in a memorable final against Brazil.

* 1954: Sepp Herberger (West Germany) – Orchestrated the “Miracle of Bern,” leading West Germany to an improbable victory.

* 1958: Vicente Feola (Brazil) – The architect of Brazil’s first World Cup win, featuring a young Pelé.

 

* 1962: Aymoré Moreira (Brazil) – Continued Brazil’s dominance, securing their second consecutive title.

* 1966: Alf Ramsey (England) – Famously led England to their sole World Cup victory on home soil.

* 1970: Mario Zagallo (Brazil) – “The Great Professor” led one of the most aesthetically pleasing World Cup-winning teams. Zagallo would later win another World Cup as an assistant manager in 1994.

* 1974: Helmut Schön (West Germany) – Guided West Germany to a famous victory over the Netherlands’ “Total Football.”

* 1978: César Luis Menotti (Argentina) – Led Argentina to their first World Cup triumph, played on home ground.

* 1982: Enzo Bearzot (Italy) – Guided an experienced Italian side to an unexpected victory.

 

* 1986: Carlos Bilardo (Argentina) – The mastermind behind Diego Maradona’s iconic performance that secured Argentina’s second title.

* 1990: Franz Beckenbauer (West Germany) – Became one of only three individuals to win the World Cup as both a player and a manager.

* 1994: Carlos Alberto Parreira (Brazil) – Led Brazil to their fourth World Cup, emphasizing tactical discipline.

* 1998: Aimé Jacquet (France) – Guided France to their maiden WC victory on home soil.

* 2002: Luiz Felipe Scolari (Brazil) – “Big Phil” led a star-studded Brazilian side to their record fifth title.

* 2006: Marcello Lippi (Italy) – Commanded an Italian team that defied expectations to lift the trophy in Germany.

 

* 2010: Vicente del Bosque (Spain) – The calm presence behind Spain’s historic tiki-taka dominance.

* 2014: Joachim Löw (Germany) – Led Germany to their fourth World Cup title with a powerful and efficient team.

* 2018: Didier Deschamps (France) – Joined Beckenbauer and Zagallo in the exclusive club of World Cup winners as both player and manager.

* 2022: Lionel Scaloni (Argentina) – Guided Lionel Messi and Argentina to a long-awaited World Cup triumph.

 

Who’s Next? The “Don Carlo” Conundrum
As the football world looks ahead to the next World Cup, speculation is rife about which managerial genius will add their name to this coveted list. One name that frequently emerges in these discussions, often with a hint of longing from fans, is Carlo Ancelotti.

 

“Don Carlo,” as he is affectionately known, boasts an unparalleled club career, having won multiple UEFA Champions League titles and league trophies across Europe’s top five leagues. His tactical flexibility, man-management skills, and ability to foster a harmonious dressing room are legendary.
However, Ancelotti’s illustrious career has predominantly been at the club level. The World Cup, with its compressed schedule, national team dynamics, and unique pressures, presents a different challenge.

 

While many dream of seeing his touch extend to the international stage, particularly with a powerhouse like Brazil (“Don Carlo Brazil Awo lokon” as the sentiment goes), the question remains: will the opportunity arise, and can he translate his club success to international glory?

 

The next World Cup cycle will undoubtedly bring new talents and experienced hands to the forefront. But for now, the debate about “who’s next” continues, fueled by the legacy of those who have already achieved football’s ultimate managerial feat.