Jurgen Klopp names his all-time top managers, lauding Guardiola and Ferguson after Liverpool stint
Ex-Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has revealed his personal list of the greatest football coaches of all time, expressing particular admiration for Pep Guardiola and Sir Alex Ferguson following his departure from Anfield.
Ahead of the 2025 FIFA Best Football Awards in Doha, Klopp contributed to the celebrations by unveiling his own “Mount Rushmore” of football management, highlighting four figures he believes have had the most profound impact on the game.
In a statement shared for the occasion, Klopp emphasized the importance of honoring the most influential figures in football. Interestingly, he left himself out of the list, as well as other notable names such as José Mourinho, Carlo Ancelotti, and Arrigo Sacchi.
Klopp began with Johan Cruyff, describing him as the coach who most shaped his understanding of football. He praised Cruyff’s vision and innovative approach to the sport, calling his influence unmatched.
Next on the list was Pep Guardiola. Klopp compared the Spaniard’s tactical intelligence to Cruyff’s and reflected on the challenges of facing Guardiola, whom he has met more times than any other coach in his career. In 30 matches against Guardiola, Klopp recorded 12 wins, 11 losses, and seven draws.
Sir Alex Ferguson was another inevitable inclusion. Klopp highlighted both Ferguson’s extraordinary achievements and the respect he commands personally, calling the former Manchester United manager one of the most remarkable figures in football history. Klopp has previously likened Ferguson to a cultural icon, noting his consistency, longevity, and leadership.
For the final spot, Klopp admitted it was a difficult choice. After considering several legendary Italian and Liverpool managers, he ultimately selected Bill Shankly. Though Klopp never witnessed Shankly in action, he emphasized the lasting impact of Shankly’s legacy on Liverpool’s identity as a decisive factor in his choice.
Ultimately, Klopp’s four-man “Mount Rushmore” consists of Johan Cruyff, Pep Guardiola, Sir Alex Ferguson, and Bill Shankly — a combination reflecting both tactical innovation and enduring success across different footballing eras.
