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Ranking the 20 Premier League managers

By Roy Emanuel

Jose Mourinho posed for photographers at his unveiling as the new Manchester United manager
Jose Mourinho posed for photographers at his unveiling as the new Manchester United manager /
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MOENCHENGLADBACH, GERMANY – NOVEMBER 23: Josep Guardiola of Manchester City shouts instructions during the UEFA Champions League match between VfL Borussia Moenchengladbach and Manchester City FC at Borussia-Park on November 23, 2016 in Moenchengladbach, North Rhine-Westphalia. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Bongarts/Getty Images)
MOENCHENGLADBACH, GERMANY – NOVEMBER 23: Josep Guardiola of Manchester City shouts instructions during the UEFA Champions League match between VfL Borussia Moenchengladbach and Manchester City FC at Borussia-Park on November 23, 2016 in Moenchengladbach, North Rhine-Westphalia. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Bongarts/Getty Images) /

Pep Guardiola – Manchester City

The rankings have had a strong emphasis on Premier League records and success. However, sometimes there are individuals who top a list no matter what the standards are. Pep Guardiola’s legacy in European football is unmatched.

Along with current Everton manager Ronald Koeman, Guardiola was a part of Barcelona’s “Dream Team” in the early 1990’s. One of the best defensive midfielders in the world at the time, the Spaniard’s incredible vision and knowledge of the game would serve him well as a manager.

He worked with Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy and the reserve squad until taking over the senior team in 2008. Unprecedented success soon followed, as Guardiola’s tactics fit his talented squad perfectly. Referred to as “tiki-taka”, a 4-3-3 formation focused on possession and quick passing.

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Lionel Messi, Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta were absolutely transcendent during this period. The Blaugrana captured three La Liga titles, two UEFA Champions league crowns, two FIFA Club World Cups and were two-time Copa del Rey champions.

Guardiola moved to the Bundesliga with Bayern Munich and the trophy haul continued with three consecutive league titles in Germany. His tactical system was effective and Guardiola showed an excellent ability to adapt in a new league.

Manchester City have been in sparkling form since Guardiola’s arrival this summer. Players like Kevin De Bruyne and Raheem Sterling have shined in the new system, with striker Sergio Aguero more clinical than ever in front of goal.

The City Football Group have aspirations of building their club into one of Europe’s best. Now that Europe’s best manager is on board, they just may be able to achieve those lofty expectations.

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