6 Best managers in the world right now (2021)

---

#3 Jurgen Klopp (Liverpool)

Liverpool v Crystal Palace - Premier League

Liverpool endured a subdued 2020-21 season, but given the circumstances Jurgen Klopp's men did well to finish 3rd in the Premier League.

Long-term injuries to centre-backs Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip saw Klopp field the inexperienced duo of Nathaniel Phillips and Rhys Williams at the heart of defence. In fact, injuries defined Liverpool's season, with various key players missing big chunks of game-time due to various fitness reasons.

Jurgen Klopp on Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez, Joel Matip and Trent Alexander-Arnold:"They aren’t [at the same level as the others], but it’s different. Let’s start with: all four look really good, I have to say. Look really good." #awlive [lfc] pic.twitter.com/1sqiOn7NcW

— Anfield Watch (@AnfieldWatch) July 13, 2021

For some time it looked unlikely that Liverpool would finish in the top 4, but Klopp's men, fuelled by a spectacular Alisson goal, managed to do so in the end. Liverpool will be keen to avoid another situation like this in the future.

---

#2 Roberto Mancini (Italy)

Italy v England - UEFA Euro 2020: Final

Roberto Mancini has made a career out of leading teams to historic victories, and it was not surprising to see Italy win Euro 2020 under his management.

Few would have labelled Italy the favourites to win the competition. But Mancini's coaching was widely appreciated throughout Euro 2020, with his Italy side often blowing away opponents with their attacking style of play. Many compared Mancini's Italy to a well-run club team.

3 years undefeated. 34 games unbeaten. European champion. 🏆 TAKE A BOW, ROBERTO MANCINI 👏 👏 pic.twitter.com/S4j2lqTjND

— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) July 11, 2021

Mancini led Manchester City to their first league title in 44 years, while at Inter Milan he won three consecutive Serie A titles. The 56-year old signed a new contract with the Italy national team before the start of Euro 2020, and in hindsight, this looks like an extremely smart decision.

---

#1 Pep Guardiola (Manchester City)

Manchester City FC Training Session and Press Conference - UEFA Champions League Final 2021

One of the greatest managers of all time, Pep Guardiola's Manchester City were arguably the best team in Europe last season.

Guardiola's side won the Premier League and the EFL Cup, but lost to Chelsea in the Champions League final. The Spaniard deserves credit for the way he led his Manchester City side to success in the league after a poor start to the season. Manchester City, in the second half of last season, were a frighteningly good side.

Of course, winning the Champions League remains the ultimate goal. Guardiola was extremely close last time around, and if they do sign Harry Kane and Jack Grealish this summer, Manchester City will be the team to beat.

---