- Guardiola misses out on top spot in Bent’s rankings
- Former striker makes major claim
- European achievement adds fuel to debate
Darren Bent has shared his view on the best managers in world football right now, and the former Premier League striker believes one coach currently edges Pep Guardiola.
Pep Guardiola is arguably the best manager in Manchester City’s history. The Catalan manager is also regarded as one of the greatest managers ever in world football.
His influence can be seen all around English football today, and he’s turned the Sky Blues into one of the most dominant forces on the European stage.
Many players don’t forget to name him as their best manager. However, former striker Darren Bent believes that the gaffer narrowly misses out on the top spot.
Darren Bent ranks Luis Enrique higher than Pep Guardiola
Despite his achievements, Bent ranked Luis Enrique above Guardiola in his list of the best managers today.
Guardiola’s former teammate at FC Barcelona, Enrique, manages Paris-Saint-Germain. He also helped the French side win the Champions League in the 2024/25 season.
The debate over the best manager has intensified following PSG’s recent run in the Champions League knockout stage.
The French side finds themselves in the semi-finals of the competition. They recently won 5-4 against Bayern Munich in the first leg.
Enrique overtakes Guardiola in Champions League milestone
Enrique also surpassed Guardiola in a remarkable Champions League statistic. The former Spain manager surpassed his rival by reaching 50 wins in fewer games than any other manager in the competition’s history.
Guardiola took 80 games to reach 50 wins in the continental competition, while Enrique needed three fewer games than his Spanish compatriot.
Enrique is usually outside the immediate view of European media because he is currently serving as a manager in Ligue 1.
The French top flight doesn’t get as much attention as the other football leagues. France even ranks sixth in UEFA’s season association coefficient, further adding to the lack of coverage.
Guardiola remains top in influence
While Gurdiola might be moving down the best manager’s list, the Catalan’s influence on the game remains untouchable.
Enrique probably deserves the top spot at the moment, considering his achievements with PSG. Guardiola, on the other hand, is in the final years of his contract and is closing a big chapter of his managerial career.
Nevertheless, the six-time Premier League winner continues to be viewed as the benchmark for his longevity, consistency and lasting impact on the game.
