The Men’s Team Coach of the Year category—also known as the Johan Cruyff Trophy—features five outstanding coaches recognized for exceptional performance during the 2024–25 season:
- Antonio Conte
- Luis Enrique
- Hansi Flick
- Enzo Maresca
- Arne Slot
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Here’s a breakdown of what each coach accomplished with their respective teams:
Also Read: Ballon d’Or 2025 Nominees Unveiled
Antonio Conte – Napoli
Conte made immediate waves in Naples by guiding Napoli to the 2024–25 Serie A title, marking his first season in charge as a triumph. In doing so, he became the first coach in Serie A history to win the league with three different clubs. His leadership earned him the Serie A Coach of the Year award and multiple Coach of the Month honors. Conte’s triumph is a testament to his tactical acumen and ability to inspire instant cohesion.
Luis Enrique – Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)
Luis Enrique delivered a legendary season at PSG, leading the club to a historic continental treble—winning Ligue 1, the Coupe de France, and clinching their first-ever UEFA Champions League title with a dominant 5–0 final against Inter Milan. PSG also reached the FIFA Club World Cup final, narrowly missing a seventh trophy in a remarkable calendar year.
Hansi Flick – Barcelona
In his debut season at FC Barcelona, Hansi Flick masterminded a sensational domestic treble, clinching La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup. Recognized by the RFEF Coaches Committee, he was crowned La Liga Coach of the Season, underscoring his immediate impact on the Blaugrana.
Enzo Maresca – Chelsea
Since taking over Chelsea mid-2024, Maresca quickly made his mark. He guided the team to victory in the UEFA Conference League, making Chelsea the first club to win all four current major UEFA competitions. He capped the season with a FIFA Club World Cup triumph, securing two global titles in his debut year.
Arne Slot – Liverpool
Arne Slot enjoyed a fairy-tale start at Liverpool, winning the Premier League in his debut season and achieving the title with matches to spare. His leadership earned him the LMA Manager of the Year, and the Reds powered through the season with consistency and flair.
The 2025 (Johan Cruyff Trophy)Men’s Team Coach of the Year shortlist features a thrilling mix of tactical innovation, rapid transformation, and championship success across Europe’s top leagues. Each nominee elevated their clubs to new heights:
| Coach | Team | Key Achievement |
|---|---|---|
| Antonio Conte | Napoli | Serie A title in 1st season; historic triple-club winner |
| Luis Enrique | PSG | Continental treble + Champions League |
| Hansi Flick | Barcelona | Domestic treble in debut season |
| Enzo Maresca | Chelsea | Conference League & Club World Cup in debut season |
| Arne Slot | Liverpool | Premier League title in debut season |
As fans await the final decision—expected at the Ballon d’Or gala—these five coaches exemplify leadership, adaptability, and elite-level success.
