France Football has unveiled the nominees for the 2026 Coach of the Year awards, with Mikel Arteta and Luis Enrique leading the shortlist. The announcement identifies five managers in both the men’s and women’s categories for the prestigious prizes named in honour of the legendary Dutch coach, Johan Cruyff.
The awards recognise coaches whose tactical excellence and achievements produced outstanding success during the previous football season. The shortlist features managers who have demonstrated an ability to navigate the complexities of elite competition through strategic innovation and effective squad management.
The unveiling of the 2026 Coach of the Year nominees places high-profile figures like Arteta and Enrique at the centre of the global footballing conversation. Arteta’s presence on the list follows his tactical discipline at Arsenal, while Enrique’s inclusion reflects the structural changes he has implemented at Paris Saint-Germain.
Johan Cruyff Trophy selection criteria
The Coach of the Year award is linked to the philosophy of Johan Cruyff, whose emphasis on total football and tactical innovation changed the sport. By naming the trophy after him, France Football ensures the award remains focused on the intellectual and strategic side of the game.
Selection for the shortlist is not based solely on silverware. While winning major domestic or continental trophies is a primary factor, the committee also evaluates the style of play, the development of talent, and the tactical consistency of the nominees’ teams. This approach distinguishes the Johan Cruyff Trophy from other managerial accolades by rewarding the method of victory as much as the victory itself.
The inclusion of five managers in both the men’s and women’s categories reflects the expanding global landscape of the sport. In the women’s category, the nominations demonstrate the rapid professionalisation and the increasing tactical depth within the female game, which has seen significant growth in both viewership and commercial investment.
For elite clubs, such recognition carries significant weight. Being named among the world’s best coaches can influence brand value, player recruitment, and the overall commercial standing of a football institution.
The final decision will be determined by a specialised panel of football journalists and experts. This panel assesses the seasonal impact of each nominee, ensuring that the award reflects consistent excellence throughout the entire campaign rather than isolated performances.
The winners will be officially announced during the upcoming Ballon d’Or ceremony, where the footballing community will gather to celebrate the season’s most outstanding individual achievements.
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